Hiring

Good employment relationships begin with a good hiring process (sometimes called a ‘recruitment’ process). There are a number of steps in hiring a new employee.

  • The hiring process

    When you hire a new employee, you need to act fairly throughout the recruitment process and make sure you do not discriminate against people based on sex, age, race or other illegal grounds.

  • Discrimination against transgender people

    A person’s gender identity and expression are part of who they are, not a lifestyle choice. Transgender people should be protected from discrimination in employment.

  • Trials and probationary periods

    If you’re hired on a trial or probationary period, your employer must include the details in your employment agreement. If you have not agreed to a trial or probationary period before you start your job, it is not legal.

  • Pre-employment trials

    Sometimes it is appropriate to ask job applicants to perform tasks as part of the interview process, so you can assess whether they have the skills needed for a job.

  • Hiring young people

    Employing young people is good for business and the community. While the government offers help to employers to hire, train and progress young people, learn what you need to do when you hire people 20 years old or under.

  • Tests and checks

    Employers can use tests and checks both before and during employment. Checks can include criminal or credit history, and drug and alcohol testing, but must be relevant to the job and/or workplace.

  • Employment for disabled people

    Disabled people bring diverse and valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace. They contribute to a workforce that reflects the community and customers it serves.

  • Hiring temporary migrants

    Before hiring someone from overseas, you need to make sure they have the legal right to work in New Zealand.

  • Employers on stand-down

    All employers are required to comply with employment standards. Employers who have breached employment standards are restricted from recruiting migrant employees.