Persephone

Hi,

Just a question about holiday entitlement in NZ. I have read that the statutory allowance is 3 weeks per year but that this is only after working for 12 months. I do like my job [most of the time!] but the thought of working for a year before any time off... well I just don't want to think about that!

I would like to know whether employers tend to give above the statutory requirement as a matter of course, whether this is up for discussion at interview or whether the tendency is to stick to the letter of the law. Presumably depends on what type of job you do but I'd just like a general overview of what's classed as normal. Here in the UK I've always been given above the statutory amount, though maybe I've just worked for some lovely people!

I haven't got a job yet, just want to know what to expect!

Thanks Sue

sarahw

Statutory hols are now 4 weeks plus bank holidays. Most reasonable employers will allow you to take hols before you've been there 12 months but by law they aren't obliged too.

Most companies only offer the statutory minimum (hence the reason I started contracting!!)

Persephone

Thanks for that, my book is dated 2006 so obviously out of date already!
Sounds like I won't be looking at working too long without a holiday then. Reason is my job entails doing night and weekend work usually on top of normal working hours so time off becomes essential after a while or you just go insane! All work and no play etc ... I'm not just lazy!

banshigirl

Great question Sue!

Was getting quite concerned as going over for a better life but if what I have been reading about long working hours and no holidays, I was kind off wondering!

I am not lazy either, but do look forward to spending time with my hubs!

Persephone

Me too!
Had read this about holidays and been told it by a New Zealander living over there. But it never seemed to get mentioned anywhere on here and was just a little worried...
It wouldn't have stopped me going though, after all, it's only one year! Could cope if I had too I suppose

banshigirl

Totally agree.

Nothing will stop us from going, but little queries like this just make you more sure you are doing the right thing.

Make you feel better!

Nice Guy

Just negotiate at your interview.........I did and got what I wanted!

nero

The way it works at our place is that you accumulate holiday leave each hour you work. So I have only been at my place for @ 4 months yet I will be having paid holiday in the next few weeks.

Plus some companies like the District Health Boards will allow you to take paid holiday before you have accumulated the holiday leave but they ask you to sign a waiver. Basically saying if you leave before you have accrued the paid annual leave you will be asked to pay back the money or it will be docked from your last wage.

So it is not all bad, but make sure you discuss at interview and get it in your work contract.

TeamEmbo

I was told at interview that there would be no time off at Christmas, regardless of the fact that you are entitled to your bank hols, although you do get time and half pay and a day in lieu off. Annual leave is accured each week but no leave can be taken until the anniversary of your first year. But then mine is a menial type job. Someone at management level or office-based or professional probably wouldn't have any problem being able to book leave already accured before the 12 months.