The NZCTU recognises that workers’ rights are human rights and is committed to supporting working people in Aotearoa New Zealand in their fight for economic and social justice.
A major issue faced by working people is the inherent imbalance of power between workers and their employers, with employers having the upper hand. Unions are essential in enabling working people to stand up for their rights and ensuring that unions have the strength and resources to organise is a major challenge.
Our work in this area focuses on bringing about the creation of worker-friendly laws and policies through participating in tripartite discussions, making submissions to the government, and becoming involved in legal cases to highlight and improve workers’ interests.
Latest Employment Relations Info
- Submission on the Minimum Wage Review 2026
The minimum wage is an important policy tool that provides a wage floor for vulnerable workers. The NZCTU’s view is that the overarching aim of the minimum wage should be… Read More »Submission on the Minimum Wage Review 2026 - Three years of pain: The state of the labour market, 2023–26
Secure employment and income are fundamental to wellbeing. But many New Zealanders have experienced a collapse in their employment and income security over the past three years. Hundreds of thousands… Read More »Three years of pain: The state of the labour market, 2023–26 - What have workers lost under a National-led government?
A guide about what this Government has changed and what it means for working people There’s a lot of employment law changes to keep track of. You don’t need to… Read More »What have workers lost under a National-led government? - Briefing to the Incoming Government 2026
Working people are demanding change that will lead to good work and decent lives for all. The next Government should restore fair pay agreements and pay equity legislation within its… Read More »Briefing to the Incoming Government 2026 - Workers must be at the centre of all AI policy
New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi welcomes Labour’s AI policy, which will support a future where technology works for people. “Artificial intelligence tools are becoming widely used… Read More »Workers must be at the centre of all AI policy - NZCTU welcomes Labour’s plan to restore and expand Apprenticeship Boost
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is welcoming Labour’s announcement today that it will restore and expand the Apprenticeship Boost scheme if elected in November. NZCTU… Read More »NZCTU welcomes Labour’s plan to restore and expand Apprenticeship Boost
Resources
NZCTU Definition of Good Work, June 2022
Good work is mahi that has a lasting positive impact on the worker, the employer, and the wider community. It is mahi that enhances the mana and dignity of workers, and where both employers and employees are treated with respect. The NZCTU’s definition can be used to help assess the extent to which good work is available in Aotearoa New Zealand and to develop policy to improve the quality of employment.
Policy Topics
