Weathering the storm – FAQs for Employers

No one knew what would happen after Cyclone Gabrielle slammed into New Zealand. (Image: JMA)

Fri, 24 Feb 2023

After three years of navigating a pandemic, many businesses are now dealing with the devastating impacts of the recent floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.I've been fielding questions on employer rights and obligations in natural disasters. Here are some guidelines. The key message coming out of the post-pandemic litigation has been clear: ordinary employment laws still apply in extraordinary times. Do we have to pay employees who can’t work?The first place to check is any business interruption/force majeure or shift cancellation...

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