Cameron Wong v Obers Brothers Construction Limited (in liquidation) [2025] NZERA 713
Painter Cameron Wong said he was confronted at work, told to pack his belongings and leave, and later received only part of his final pay. Obers Brothers Construction Limited did not participate in the Authority's investigation. The ERA found the dismissal unjustified and made awards for unpaid holiday entitlements, notice, lost wages and hurt and humiliation.
At a glance
- Authority member: Geoff O'Sullivan
- Investigation: 8 July 2025 by audiovisual link
- Determination: 7 November 2025
- Outcome: unjustified dismissal
- Total ordered: $37,897
- Costs: reserved
What happened
Mr Wong had worked as a painter for just over eleven months. He said he repeatedly asked for a written employment agreement but was not provided one. On 5 August 2024, following a dispute about a comment he had allegedly made to a builder, he was told to leave and pack his belongings. He later submitted a resignation letter because he believed that was necessary to protect his notice entitlement.
The Authority accepted Mr Wong's evidence, including evidence from supporting witnesses. The employer did not attend the investigation meeting or otherwise justify its actions. The Authority therefore found that Mr Wong had been unjustifiably dismissed.
Orders
- Unpaid holiday entitlements: $5,355
- Two weeks' notice: $2,800
- Lost wages: $12,242
- Compensation: $17,500 for humiliation, injury to feelings and loss of dignity
Read the determination
Source: Employment Relations Authority determination hosted on determinations.era.govt.nz. This summary is general information, not legal advice.
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