# Labour Inspectorate complaints Official source: https://www.employment.govt.nz/resolving-problems/how-to-resolve-problems/labour-inspectorate-complaints Scanned: 2026-06-07T03:31:31.402Z Use this as a current official guidance reference, not as a substitute for legal advice. ## Page Text Home Resolving problems How to resolve problems Labour Inspectorate complaints How to resolve problems Resolving problems Problems in the workplace Misconduct Bullying, harassment and discrimination Illness and injury Migrant exploitation Work relationship problems How to resolve problems Steps to resolve problems Resolving issues yourselves Talking to your employer Early resolution Mediation Personal grievances Disciplinary action Records of settlement Labour Inspectorate complaints Escalating unresolved issues Protected disclosure Employment during and after disasters Addressing Holidays Act non-compliance Everyone Labour Inspectorate complaints You can complain to the Labour Inspectorate if you see or suspect a breach of employment standards. The role of the Labour Inspectorate The Labour Inspectorate seeks to ensure employment standards are complied with, so that: all employees have their minimum employment rights respected, and all employers operate in fair marketplaces, free from non-compliant businesses that may have an unfair advantage. It does this by identifying and investigating breaches, taking enforcement action where necessary, and providing ‘ early resolution A free, phone-based service provided by Employment New Zealand, which works with employees and employers to help them resolve a problem quickly and informally before it gets more difficult to sort out. ’ assistance for some complaints. Inspectors A warranted employee of MBIE who ensures employment standards are met in the workplace. They can take enforcement action for non-compliance with employment standards. also run proactive targeted operations in priority areas. The Labour Inspectorate also works with industry and sector leadership and other key parties to strengthen the systems that underpin employment standards compliance. How to make a complaint Anyone who sees or suspects a breach of employment standards can report it. You will need to complete our online reporting form. Reporting an employment breach (external link) Employment law Labour Inspectors and Labour Standards Officers are tasked with making sure workplaces meet the employment standards and requirements set out in the following legislation. Employment Relations Act 2000 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Equal Pay Act 1972 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Holidays Act 2003 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Minimum Wage Act 1983 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Volunteers Employment Protection Act 1973 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Wages Protection Act 1983 - New Zealand Legislation (external link) Typically, this means monitoring and enforcing compliance with requirements relating to: minimum wage The lowest amount an employee can be paid per hour. There are 3 types of minimum wage: adult, starting-out and training. There is no minimum wage for employees younger than 16 years old. holiday pay leave entitlement wage deduction, and record-keeping. Labour Inspectors and Labour Standards Officers do not give advice about general disputes, employment relationship The way in which employers, employees, and sometimes unions, relate and behave towards each other. An employment relationship starts when an employee accepts an offer of employment. problems and contractual matters contained in employment agreements A written document setting out the terms and conditions of employment agreed by the employer and employee (also known as a ‘contract of service’). It can include other contractual documents and agreements made by the employer and employee. Every employee must have a written employment agreement. (like rates of pay above the minimum wage). How to resolve problems Published: 11 March 2024 Last modified: 17 April 2026 Written for: Everyone Share this page: Print this page: