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Painter Cameron Wong was told to pack his belongings and leave after a workplace confrontation, then received only part of his final entitlements. Obers Brothers Construction, already in liquidation, did not participate in the ERA investigation.

Mr Wei's claims followed a workplace altercation and the employer's response to it, including the eventual end of his employment and disputed wage-related entitlements. CCTV footage and conflicting accounts of the incident were central to the ERA investigation.

What employment advocates actually do for employees and employers in mediation, ERA investigations and Employment Court litigation, including case assessment, evidence, negotiation and representation.

What the New Zealand Employment Court does, how a de novo challenge differs from an ERA investigation, key procedural stages and what parties should expect when preparing for a hearing.

Apprentice builder Nicholas Stalker experienced repeated late and missing wage payments before being dismissed by text for alleged performance and misconduct without prior warnings, investigation or an opportunity to respond. The ERA upheld unjustified dismissal and disadvantage claims and ordered compensation, 13 weeks' lost wages, substantial arrears, notice pay, holiday pay, a penalty and costs.

Emily Barr complained about repeated belittling and dismissive treatment by her manager. Brooker Travel obtained an external investigation but then failed to adequately protect her, disclose the final report or provide a workable return-to-work plan. The ERA found unjustified disadvantage and constructive dismissal, awarding $20,000 compensation and six months' lost wages with associated entitlements.

Oranga Tamariki summarily dismissed social worker Bigson Gumbeze after an external investigation into complaints about his supervision, dealings with managers and aspects of his practice. The ERA upheld the dismissal, but he challenged that result afresh in the Employment Court.