New Zealand
Complete guide to NZ employee leave entitlements including 4 weeks annual leave, 10 sick days, and 26 weeks paid parental leave.
20
Annual leave
11
Public holidays
country
Location type
2025-01-15
Reviewed
Legal framework
Primary legislation
Governing body
Last updated
Official source
Entitlements overview
Annual leave
Statutory entitlement: 20
Calculation: 4 weeks per year after 12 months
Pro-rata: 8% of gross earnings until 12 months, then accrual
Carryover: Accumulates over time
Sick leave
Statutory: Yes
Paid days: 10
Statutory pay: Relevant daily pay
Eligibility: 6 months continuous employment
Parental leave
Maternity: 26 weeks paid + unpaid to 52 weeks
Paternity: 1-2 weeks unpaid (partner's leave)
Shared leave: 26 weeks paid can be shared/transferred
Additional leave and compliance
Other leave types
Bereavement Leave: 3 days (close family) or 1 day (other) (paid)
Family Violence Leave: 10 days per year (paid)
Record keeping and notice
Records: Maintain records for 6 years
Penalties: Employment Relations Authority can award penalties
Public holiday sample
New Year's Day: 2025-01-01
Day after New Year's Day: 2025-01-02
Waitangi Day: 2025-02-06
Good Friday: 2025-04-18
Easter Monday: 2025-04-21
Anzac Day: 2025-04-25
Frequently asked questions
How much sick leave do NZ employees get?
10 days per year after 6 months of employment. Unused sick leave can accumulate up to 20 days.
What is Matariki?
Matariki is the Māori New Year, celebrated when the Matariki star cluster rises. It became a public holiday in 2022. The date varies each year.
Related policy guides
New South Wales, Australia
Complete guide to NSW employee leave entitlements under National Employment Standards including 4 weeks annual leave, personal leave, and parental leave.
Victoria, Australia
Complete guide to Victoria employee leave entitlements under National Employment Standards and Victorian long service leave.
United Kingdom (England)
Complete guide to UK employee leave entitlements including statutory annual leave, sick pay (SSP), maternity, paternity, and shared parental leave.