Shaun Graves initially worked through his own contracting company, but later moved onto NZSL's PAYE payroll, worked regular hours under its direction and used its equipment. The ERA found he had become an employee from 23 September 2024 and was unjustifiably dismissed when simply told his services were no longer required.
Search Employment Law
Search New Zealand employment-law guides, ERA determinations, Employment Court decisions and topics.
Search tips
- Use quotes for exact phrases, eg "unfair dismissal".
- Use +word to require, -word to exclude, eg +redundancy -trial.
- Use OR to broaden, eg dismissal OR redundancy.
Results for redundancy compensation
Common employment disputes for farming businesses using Federated Farmers or similar employment agreements, including hours, accommodation, deductions, leave, performance and execution of the agreement.
A consolidated guide to the Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026: commencement dates, changes to personal-grievance remedies and contribution, and the transitional question of which law applies to a particular dispute.
What an employer should do after receiving a personal grievance: do not concede or retaliate, preserve records, identify the legal claims and deadlines, and assess whether mediation or a defended response is appropriate.
An unjustified dismissal is a Personal Grievance claim. The central question is whether the employer's actions, and how the employer acted, were what a fair and reasonable employer could have done in all the circumstances.
Personal Grievance (PG)
TopicA Personal Grievance (PG) is the main process employees use to challenge unjustified dismissal, unjustified disadvantage and other unlawful treatment at work. Time limits are strict and how the grievance is first raised can matter.
No Win No Fee
TopicNo Win No Fee employment advocacy means you usually do not pay professional fees upfront. Suitable employee cases are assessed on merit, evidence, likely recovery and whether the matter can be run commercially under the engagement terms.
Unjustified Disadvantage
TopicUnjustified disadvantage is a Personal Grievance (PG) where an employer takes unjustifiable action that disadvantages an employee or worsens the employee's conditions. This page explains the basics, common examples, time limits, evidence, and practical next steps.
