Work & employment
What should I look for in an employment agreement?
Every employee must have a written agreement — check pay, hours, leave, trial periods, and job description before you sign.
Before you start, your employer must provide a written employment agreement with core terms: parties, description of work, location, hours, wages, leave entitlements, and how to resolve problems. Read it properly — ask questions if anything is vague.
Pay attention to probation or trial period wording, availability clauses, and deductions. The agreement cannot go below legal minimums. Employment New Zealand publishes a guide to what must be in an agreement.
Keep a signed copy. If you are asked to sign changes later, read them carefully. Union members can ask their delegate for a second look. Not employment advice for your specific contract.
Official resources
Always confirm details on the official site — laws and processes can change.
Educational signposting only from the Resilience Programme. Not legal, financial, or medical advice. Updated 2026-07-10.