Know the rules for Matariki

Employers and employees, including those across the automotive sector, are being reminded of their rights and responsibilities as the country prepares for a public holiday on Friday, June 28, to celebrate the rising of Matariki.

The Labour Inspectorate, part of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, says workers should know their minimum rights on public holidays, and businesses also need to understand their obligations.

David Milne, Labour Inspectorate compliance manager – northern, adds: “If a public holiday falls on a day that employees would otherwise be working, the employer must still pay them a full paid day off.

“If employees are working on a public holiday, then they’re entitled to be paid time and a half, and they may also get an alternative day off.”

Unlike Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and until 1pm on Anzac Day, there are no trading restrictions for Matariki or other public holidays.

The inspectorate notes employees can only be made to work on a public holiday if it falls on a day they would normally be working, or if their employment agreement confirms they should be working that day.

For more details on public holidays, employers’ responsibilities and employee rights, click here.