Why do I need an Employment Agreement?
Your business is growing and you need extra hands! In New Zealand, the law requires you to have a written employment agreement with any new employee. A written employment agreement is also important to ensure your new employee understands their rights and obligations. This allows you to start the relationship on a positive note, with both sides on the same page.
Who is this Employment Agreement for?
Any New Zealand business hiring a person as a permanent, fixed term or casual employee. If you are hiring someone to perform a specific service, or you’re not sure you want to commit to an employee, you may want our Independent Contractor Agreement instead. See our blog here on the difference between an Individual Employment Agreement and an Independent Contractor Agreement.
What’s in this Employment Agreement?
This Individual Employment Agreement has been designed by NZ lawyers for NZ businesses. It’s comprehensive but easy to understand with no unnecessary legalese. It contains lots of options so you can tailor it to suit your circumstances (by answering our simple questions).
The agreement outlines the key terms and conditions that will apply to the employment relationship between a business and its employee. This includes whether a probationary or trial period will apply, how the employer will comply with its KiwiSaver obligations, pay structure (hourly wage, salary or commission), any additional bonuses or commission, any restraints on the employee after they leave your business, holiday and sick leave entitlements, notice periods and employee availability requirements.
Get peace of mind knowing you’re complying with your obligations as an employer and you have your legals sorted.
How long will it take to create my document?
Approx. 15-20 minutes - get it ticked off your to-do list! During the Q&A you can save your progress to come back later, or repeat the Q&A to change an answer or produce a new version of a document.
What do I do once my document is created?
The agreement is ready for you to provide to the intended employee as soon as you have downloaded it. The employee must be provided with a copy of the employment agreement, advised that they are entitled to seek independent advice and given a reasonable opportunity to seek that advice, before signing.
Other helpful information:
- Read our helpful blogs: Employee vs Contractor - What's the difference?, 90 trial periods are an option with any new employee
- If you would like to speak to a lawyer regarding your documents (or for any other legal queries), see our specialist employment law firm partner Edwards Law here.
- You may also find these bundles or documents useful for your business: Individual employment policies, Key Employment Policies, Employment Essentials and Independent Contractor Agreement.
- Check out our FAQs here.
If you’re unsure whether this document is what you need, reach out to us at hello@onyourterms.co.nz – we’re happy to help!
This product has been prepared in collaboration with our employment law content partner, Edwards Law.
If you’re not satisfied with your purchase of this product for any reason, let us know why within 10 days of your purchase and we’ll work with you to make sure you’re happy, including giving you a full refund if necessary.
Disclaimer: On Your Terms was created to provide fast, easy and affordable access to legal information and documentation. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. The information and documents we provide are of a general nature, designed for common situations, and may not be suitable for your needs or circumstances. If you need legal advice, we have a network of specialist law firm partners able to help you here.