How does sick leave work in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, employees are entitled to paid sick leave to support their health and well-being during periods of illness or injury. Horizons follows the statutory sick leave entitlements in full compliance with local employment law.

Entitlement

Employees become eligible for sick leave after 6 months of continuous employment.
The statutory minimum is 10 days of paid sick leave per year.

Accumulation and Carryover

Unused sick leave can be carried over to the following year.
The maximum accumulation allowed is 20 days at any given time.

Pay During Sick Leave

Sick leave is fully paid by the employer at 100% of the employee’s regular salary.

Medical Certificates

A medical certificate may be required if the employee is absent for three or more consecutive calendar days.
Employers may also request a certificate for shorter absences if there is reasonable cause, in accordance with the law.