New Zealand poll finds Employment Leave Bill seen as favoring employers over workers

A poll commissioned by the Public Service Association (PSA) shows that 41% of New Zealanders believe the proposed Employment Leave Bill will benefit employers, while only 11% think workers will gain. Among part‑time workers, just 10% feel the reforms would help them, compared with 45% who say employers stand to benefit. Two‑thirds (66%) say workers with variable weekly hours should receive the same pay while on annual leave as during a normal working week.

The survey also revealed public sentiment on broader government performance: 39% say public services have deteriorated since 2023, versus 25% who say they have improved. The PSA argues the legislation would cut leave entitlements for variable‑hour employees, adding to a series of recent employment‑law changes since the coalition government took office. The Employment Leave Bill is currently before Parliament’s select committee.