Employer Bulletin | 9 November 2026
Here's what is leading the news for employers this week:
Labour market statistics: September 2026 quarter
Key facts
In the September 2026 quarter, compared with the June 2026 quarter, the:
Unemployment rate was 5.7%, compared with 5.6 percent
Underutilisation rate was unchanged at 13.8%
Employment rate was 66.4%, compared with 66.7%
In the year ended September 2026:
All salary and wage rates (including overtime) increased 2.1%
Average weekly earnings (including overtime) for full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) increased to $1,743 from $1,688
Average ordinary time hourly earnings increased to $44.86 from $43.60
In today’s Bulletin:
“Open for instruction”: open for interpretation
Private company vehicle is found to be more than tool of trade
Roster Flexibility Doesn’t Override Agreed Hours
Strict compliance required for valid trial period
Training bond Limited to Transferable Qualifications
Six news updates of interest for employers including:
Labour market statistics: September 2026 quarter
New digital credential cuts paperwork for Kiwi businesses
Geothermal exploration for Taranaki and Waikato
Regional radio strengthened for emergencies
Government backs regional airline Air Napier
Christchurch commuter rail pilot to be funded
Six Bills open for submission
If you have any questions, about this case or other employment relation matters, call the Advice Line team on 0800 800 362.
Download the bulletin:
Regional Business Briefings
Our Regional Business Briefings bring together information on what's happening in the economy, the latest employment relations updates, and policy context in a way that is directly relevant to your region and business.
As always, these Briefings are free for members.
Wellington Region + Livestream
Thursday, 19 November, 8am - 10am
ANZ Building, Wellington
Hawke's Bay
Thursday, 26 November, 9am-11am
Te Rae, Hastings
Gisborne
Wednesday, 2 December, 10am - 12pm
Lawson Field Theatre, Gisborne
Palmerston North
Wednesday, 9 December, 10am - 12pm
Palmy Conference + Function Centre, Palmerston North
