Minimum Wage - An Overview of the Laws and Your Rights
By Eddy Cowdrey

In New Zealand, we have a three tiered structure for wages calculations.

• There is an adult minimum wage of $12.50, that applies to all employees aged 16 and over who are not new entrants or trainees. These are discussed below:

• The new entrants minimum applies to employees aged 16 or 17. New entrants are considered to have completed either 3 months or 200 hours service; whichever is shorter; or who are supervising or training other workers; or who are trainees in their job. The rate for new entrants is $10.00 an hour

• The training minimum wage applies to employees older than 16, who are doing recognized training in their industry. The rate for training minimum wage is $10.00 per hour. There is currently no minimum for employees who are under 16 years old.

The adult minimum is $12.50 an hour (As from April 1 2009). That's $100 for an eight hour day, and $500 for a 40 hour week. The law states that you must be paid adult minimum; even if your working for a piece rate, such as fruit picking or by commission, such as a sales job. The minimum wage is applicable to all workers, in all varieties of work, aged 16 years or older.

This covers part time, temporary, contract and full time. If an employee holds and 'exemption permit' they can be excluded from minimum wage rates. An increase in the minimum wage will not affect an employee's other conditions of employment, unless they agree to the changes.

What if you're being paid less than minimum wage?
Well, first you should approach your boss or wage clerk at your work and outline your concern. Secondly, you can complain to a Labour Official, who has the ability to investigate firms not paying the minimum adult rate.

In addition to your wage rate, holiday pay is paid. If you're paid holiday pay as you go, this should be shown as a separate calculation to your normal pay.

If you are interested in finding out more about New Zealand Tax refunds and other income tax information, head to http://www.taxreturn.co.nz - Tax refunds for New Zealanders.

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