How does annual leave work in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, employees are entitled to a minimum of four weeks of paid annual leave after completing 12 months of continuous employment. Horizons follows these national entitlements in full, in accordance with local employment laws.


Accrual of Annual Leave

  • First year: Leave is pro-rated based on the employee’s start date and working hours.

  • From the second year onward: Employees receive the full four weeks of leave annually.


Carrying Over Leave

Annual leave can be carried over to the next year with the employer’s consent. Horizons encourages employees to take their leave within a reasonable timeframe to support rest and well-being. However:

  • Horizons may request that employees take some or all of their accrued leave, provided this is done fairly and with appropriate notice.


Cashing Out Leave

In certain circumstances, New Zealand law allows employees to cash out up to one week of their annual leave per year, upon agreement with the employer. This must be formally requested and approved.



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