From 1 April 2007 the minimum wage increases are as follows:
Old rate New rate
Adult rate (age 18 and over) $10.25 / hour $11.25 / hour
16 - 17 year old $8.20 / hour $9.00 / hour
There is no statutory minimum wage for employees under the age of 16.
By law, employers must pay at least the minimum wage - even if an employee is paid by commission or by piece rate. The minimum wage applies to all workers aged 16 years or older, including home workers, casuals, temporary and part-time workers.
The only exception is when an employee holds an exemption permit.
Holiday pay must be paid in addition to the minimum wage. If an employee receives “pay-as-you-go” holiday pay, this payment must be a separate and identifiable part of their pay.
An increase in the minimum wage will not affect an employee’s other conditions of employment, unless they agree to the changes.
An employee being paid less than the minimum wage can complain to a Labour Inspector, who may investigate and act to recover any money owed.
NB: Information courtesy of the Department of Labour at http://www.ers.dol.govt.nz/pay/minimum.html
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