Employer Bulletin | 16 October

Following the election at the weekend, it’s likely that any new government will pursue a range of reforms to employment legislation. For example, National has made clear that it will repeal Fair Pay legislation within 100 days of taking power. As final votes are counted over the coming days, and the shape of the new government becomes clearer, we will continue to monitor developments and provide you with relevant employment updates.

NZSki limited was found guilty of breaching its health and safety obligations in the Queenstown District Court, following a fence post ski death. WorkSafe’s investigation uncovered a 2014 document from a ski patrol staffer titled Padding Hazard Register Grid detailing hazards that could be likely skied into at high speed. Several serious harm injuries had already occurred as well as many near misses. The staffer stated the risk score as 10 out of 10. The Judge ruled the company had been put on notice of serious safety issues but had not conducted an adequate risk assessment. WorkSafe’s area investigation manager, Steve Kelly, stated operators have a duty of care to employees and members of the public and businesses must not lose sight of that. 

In today's Bulletin

• Net migration exceeds 100,000
• Fence post ski death due to poor risk assessment
• Government confirms improved quota system to support dairy exports
• Two Employment court case and three Employment Relations Authority cases and twelve Bills open for public submission