What additional types of leave are available in New Zealand?

In addition to annual and sick leave, employees in New Zealand may be entitled to a range of other leave types related to family and caregiving responsibilities.

Primary Carer Leave

Up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, which can begin up to 6 weeks before the expected date of childbirth.
Available to the primary carer, which may include birth mothers, adoptive parents, or other eligible caregivers.

Special Leave During Pregnancy

Up to 10 days of unpaid special leave for pregnancy-related appointments or medical needs.
This leave is in addition to standard sick or annual leave.

Partner’s Leave (Second Parent)

Partners of the primary carer are entitled to up to 26 weeks of unpaid partner’s leave, depending on eligibility and work history.
Leave must be taken within 12 months of the child’s birth or placement.

Extended Parental Leave

Employees may take up to 52 weeks of extended leave, including the initial 26 weeks of paid leave.
The additional leave is unpaid and must be requested in accordance with statutory notice requirements.

Carer Leave

Employees who do not qualify for primary carer leave may request unpaid carer leave.
This is subject to negotiation and approval, and is intended for employees providing care to a newborn or newly adopted child.

Summary

Leave Type	Duration	Paid/Unpaid
Primary carer leave	Up to 26 weeks	Paid (government-funded)
Pregnancy-related leave	Up to 10 days	Unpaid
Partner’s leave	Up to 26 weeks	Unpaid
Extended parental leave	Up to 52 weeks	Unpaid
Carer leave (negotiated)	As agreed	Unpaid