New Zealand increases parental leave pay
New Zealand will raise its maximum parental paid leave rate to NZ$788.66 per week starting July 1, 2025, as reported by the Human Resources Director.
This marks an increase from the current rate of NZ$754.87, and is part of the government’s annual wage-indexed adjustment under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987.
Paid parental leave in New Zealand can extend up to 26 weeks, with compensation designed to match the recipient’s regular earnings up to the capped amount.
The revised rate is intended to help new parents better manage time away from work while caring for their newborn or newly adopted child.
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke, Van Velden, emphasized the importance of this measure in giving children a strong foundation during their earliest weeks.
“It is important to me that families receive the support they need to give their child the best start in life,” Velden said.
Self-Employed Parental Leave and Other Circumstances
New parental leave rates have also been applied to self-employed parents, whose minimum weekly entitlement will rise from NZ$231.50 to NZ$235 gross, reflecting the recent minimum wage increase to NZ$23.50 per hour effective April 1, 2025.
New Zealand’s parental leave framework supports a wide range of family circumstances, including adoptive parents, surrogates, and those affected by miscarriage or stillbirth.
This broad scope of coverage reflects New Zealand’s evolving recognition of non-traditional family units and the unique challenges they face.
Related Content:
FREE Timesheet Templates for Businesses in New Zealand
10 Reasons Why You Should Use a PTO Tracking Software
The Ultimate Guide to Managing Employee Leave
Create an account and take the hassle out of time tracking - it's FREE forever for unlimited users!
