Where to get help if you have an issue

If an issue arises during your employment, there are a number of services available to you if you would like further information or would like to take your concerns further.

You should raise any concerns directly with your employer in the first instance, if you feel comfortable doing so.  You are also able to raise a personal grievance by writing to your employer outlining your concerns, however you must raise a personal grievance within 90 days of the issue arising.  

If you are unable to resolve the issues with your employer, you can refer your issue to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's (MBIE) Mediation Service.  This is a free mediation service which involves you discussing your issue with your employer with the assistance of a mediator.

If your issue relates to discrimination either during your employment, or when you are applying for a job, you can also make a complaint to the Human Rights Commission or Human Rights Review Tribunal.

A further description of the services available to you and their contact details are outlined below:

Human Rights Commission Human Rights Commission – provides information and useful resources in relation to discrimination issues in employment, both online at www.hrc.co.nz and through its information line, 0800 498 877.  It provides an avenue for you to raise complaints in relation to discrimination which, if unable to be resolved by mediation, may be referred to the Human Rights Review Tribunal.
MBIE Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) – provides information and useful resources for employees regarding their rights at work, both online at www.employment.govt.nz and through its free information line, 0800 20 90 20.  There is also a free mediation service to facilitate the resolution of employment relationship problems.
Youthlaw YouthLaw – provides free legal help for people under 25 regarding a range of legal issues, including employment issues.  For more information, see www.youthlaw.co.nz, or contact YouthLaw on 0800 884 529 or nzyouthlaw@gmail.com.