{"id":52141,"date":"2025-10-10T05:13:32","date_gmt":"2025-10-10T05:13:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/?post_type=resources&#038;p=52141"},"modified":"2026-03-26T08:09:15","modified_gmt":"2026-03-26T08:09:15","slug":"termination-medical-incapacity","status":"publish","type":"resources","link":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/termination-medical-incapacity\/","title":{"rendered":"An Employer&#8217;s Guide to Terminations: Medical Incapacity Factsheet"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull resource-sticky-downloadable-template has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull blog-template-header has-light-violet-50-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\"><div 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class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-5 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-sm-font-size\">Published<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date has-sm-font-size\"><time datetime=\"2025-10-10T05:13:32+00:00\">10 Oct 2025<\/time><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns content-flex is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:55%\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group sticky-downloadable-title has-light-violet-50-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-10 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--24)\"><h1 class=\"blog-template-title wp-block-post-title\">An Employer&#8217;s Guide to Terminations: Medical Incapacity Factsheet<\/h1>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-9 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-sm-font-size\" style=\"border-left-style:none;border-left-width:0px;padding-left:0\">Published<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-date has-sm-font-size\"><time datetime=\"2025-10-10T05:13:32+00:00\">Oct 10, 2025<\/time><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-sm-font-size\" style=\"border-left-color:var(--wp--preset--color--neutral-700);border-left-width:1px;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--2)\">2 min read<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group content-wrapper content-single-content wysiwyg has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-11 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Sadly, life doesn\u2019t always go to plan. Managing an employee who is unable to work due to a long-term illness or injury can be a challenging situation for any employer. You\u2019re stuck between supporting your affected employee and ensuring that your business can function as normal.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Our factsheet is designed to provide you with some guidance on how to handle medical incapacity in a way that is both compassionate and in line with New Zealand employment law. The factsheet includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-checkmark\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Your legal obligations as an employer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">The requirements of a fair process<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Alternatives to termination<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">The specifics of medical retirement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">To download the factsheet, fill out the form on the right.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><em>We&#8217;re also covering this topic as part of our webinar series, An Employer&#8217;s Guide to Terminations. <strong>Sign up to the <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/medical-incapacity-webinar\/\">webinar on managing medical incapacity here<\/a>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is medical incapacity?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Medical incapacity is when an employee is unable to do their job as a result of illness or injury. It\u2019s a challenging situation for all involved and as it includes a sensitive matter like health, needs to be handled with care by employers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common causes of medical incapacity<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">There are many different causes of medical incapacity. It may be some kind of physical hardship, such as a severe injury. There can also be mental health challenges or a chronic illness. Ultimately, medical incapacity is when whatever health issue the employee is experiencing is severe enough to stop them from performing the essential functions of their role.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact on employees and employers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">When a team member can no longer perform their job due to illness or injury, it creates a difficult situation for everyone involved. Addressing medical incapacity requires a careful balance of empathy, legal compliance and business continuity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact on the employee<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">For an employee, medical incapacity can be a stressful and life-altering event. The primary concern is often the loss of income. Long-term absence may exhaust sick leave, leading to a period without regular pay. This financial strain is compounded by the emotional and physical toll of dealing with a serious health condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">If their illness or injury is covered by ACC, they may have additional financial support. However, navigating the complex systems of ACC can also be a challenge that requires significant time and effort.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Impact on the employer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">For you, as the employer, the most immediate impact is on workforce planning. A key team member&#8217;s extended absence can disrupt projects, increase the workload on other staff and create a skills gap.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">There are also significant potential legal risks. You have a duty of care and must act fairly and in good faith. Failure to follow proper procedures for <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/medical-incapacity-webinar\/\">managing medical incapacity<\/a> can lead to <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/personal-grievance-and-unjustified-dismissal-claims\/\">claims of unfair dismissal<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Finally, a company&#8217;s approach to these situations has reputational considerations. A compassionate and supportive process reinforces a positive company culture and can improve morale and loyalty among the remaining staff. In contrast, an insensitive approach can damage the company&#8217;s reputation as a good employer, making it harder to attract talent in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How an employer may respond to medical incapacity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">There are a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.employment.govt.nz\/ending-employment\/health-issues\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">number of steps<\/a> you can take if it appears that the employee will be unable to perform their role as they previously did. You should consider whether the employee could have their role adapted for the new situation or if an alternative role in the business would be better suited. You could also consider allowing extended leave for the employee to fully recover, if that\u2019s feasible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">If it appears that the employee will no longer be able to work in the business due to medical incapacity, you have two options. You can either mutually agree with the employee that they take medical retirement or you can take steps to terminate their employment on the basis of medical incapacity. That last option should be the absolute last resort and you need to have explored all alternative options first.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Employer\u2019s legal responsibilities around medical incapacity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">It\u2019s critical that you are aware of your legal obligations when your employee is dealing with medical incapacity. Here are a few important points worth noting.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Acting fairly and in good faith<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">One of the key principles underpinning New Zealand&#8217;s employment law is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.employment.govt.nz\/starting-employment\/rights-and-responsibilities\/good-faith\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">good faith<\/a>. It\u2019s more than just a nice idea\u2014it\u2019s a legal requirement that shapes every interaction in an employment relationship. This means employers, employees, and unions must act with honesty and transparency in every interaction.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">When it comes to medical incapacity, you should follow that good faith principle, handle every process fairly and ensure that you\u2019re allowing the employee opportunities to voice their opinions and concerns.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Avoiding discrimination<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">New Zealand&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislation.govt.nz\/act\/public\/1993\/0082\/latest\/dlm304212.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Human Rights Act 1993<\/a> makes it illegal to discriminate against an employee based on a disability. Because of this, you should always consider making reasonable accommodations for disabilities and medical issues when a staff member requests them. If you decline the request, you should be able to prove that you had good reason to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Following due process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">In New Zealand, you can\u2019t make hasty decisions when it comes to employment. This is because of the need for due process, ensuring that all steps are taken fairly and with a paper trail. In dealing with medical incapacity, you should always follow a recommended process and cover the key steps that will avoid the risk of a personal grievance claim later on.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the usual process for termination due to medical incapacity in NZ?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Employers should ensure they\u2019ve covered all available avenues before termination due to medical incapacity and that there\u2019s sufficient reason for the decision. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.employment.govt.nz\/ending-employment\/health-issues\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This process<\/a> can be broken down into a series of steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obtaining medical assessments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">To make a fair decision, you need to understand the employee&#8217;s condition and prognosis. You have the right to request medical information from your employee to understand:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">The nature of their illness or injury.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Whether they can perform the core duties of their job.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">The likely timeframe for their return to work.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">However, employees are entitled to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.employment.govt.nz\/ending-employment\/health-issues\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">refuse the request<\/a>. If that happens, you can proceed with the information you already have.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Exploring reasonable adjustments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Before even considering termination, you must genuinely explore all possible alternatives. This is a crucial step that demonstrates a commitment to a fair process. You should consult with the employee about potential reasonable adjustments, such as modified duties, reduced hours or flexible work options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Consultation and procedural fairness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">You must engage in a fair and open consultation with the employee. That includes clearly communicating concerns about the employee\u2019s prolonged absence and the impact it&#8217;s having on the business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">You should also provide the employee with any medical evidence they\u2019re relying on and should listen to the employee&#8217;s perspective. A final decision shouldn\u2019t be made until employee feedback has been considered.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">At this stage, it may be worth considering offering <a href=\"https:\/\/www.employment.govt.nz\/resolving-problems\/illness-and-injury#scroll-to-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">medical retirement<\/a>, which can only be mutually agreed to by both parties. This allows the employee to leave the role on their own terms and is often seen as the more positive option to termination. Some businesses may also offer some financial payment, although this is entirely optional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Making a final decision<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Only after you have completed all the previous steps and determined that the employee is unable to return to a role in their business within a reasonable timeframe, can you make a decision to terminate employment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">This is a significant legal step and we\u2019d highly recommend that you seek legal advice before taking it. Our HR Advisory service can help with this \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/services\/hr-advisory\/\">call or email them today<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">It\u2019s also really important that everything is documented, including conversation notes and written notice. This can help you in staying compliant and support you in the case of a personal grievance claim.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key takeaways for employers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Successfully navigating a medical incapacity situation is a test of good faith and legal compliance. For employers, the key is to approach the process with a documented strategy that prioritises fairness and transparency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Always begin with a genuine exploration of alternatives before jumping to termination. This includes a thorough consultation process and exploring all reasonable adjustments..<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\">Finally, while the process is a business and legal one, it is also deeply personal for your employee. Handle every conversation with care and empathy. A fair and compassionate process protects not only your business but also your reputation as a responsible employer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-paragraph-2-m-font-size\"><strong>For more information on handling medical incapacity, download the factsheet.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-neutral-500-color has-text-color has-link-color has-xs-font-size wp-elements-ff63dc8dab20e1288f9bf3e41681fa7a\"><em><em>The information in this article is current as at 11 September 2025, and has been prepared by 91±¬ΑΟ Pty Ltd (ABN 11 160 047 709) and its related bodies corporate (91±¬ΑΟ). The views expressed in this article are general information only, are provided in good faith to assist employers and their employees, and should not be relied on as professional advice. Some information is based on data supplied by third parties. While such data is believed to be accurate, it has not been independently verified and no warranties are given that it is complete, accurate, up to date or fit for the purpose for which it is required. 91±¬ΑΟ does not accept responsibility for any inaccuracy in such data and is not liable for any loss or damages arising directly or indirectly as a result of reliance on, use of or inability to use any information provided in this article. You should undertake your own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions or relying on the information in this article.<\/em><\/em><br><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column form-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group form-v2-violet-box-shadow-pattern is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-employmentherocom2025-marketo-form-v2 is-layout-flow wp-block-marketo-form-v2-is-layout-flow\">\n                                                            <section class=\"eh_marketo_form-title-section eh_marketo_form-title-section--small\" aria-labelledby=\"marketo-form-title\">\n        <div class=\"eh_marketo_form-title-container\">\n                                        <h2 id=\"marketo-form-title\" class=\"eh_marketo_form-title\">To download the factsheet, we 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C4.32298813,1.37306725 4.15713665,1.54813319 4.00472174,1.73555674 L1.08738009,5.32173121 C-0.548874157,7.35084854 -0.312430505,10.3492133 1.62043117,12.0813364 C2.56821124,12.921447 3.80678291,13.3317192 5.05377751,13.2188532 C5.20097822,13.2064956 5.34697566,13.1875473 5.49176982,13.1613904 C6.61362375,12.9593437 7.63039162,12.3585585 8.36398864,11.4636626 L9.59594229,9.94923914 C10.0136795,9.43578101 9.94709821,8.67146367 9.44693666,8.24224316 C8.94677511,7.81302264 8.20254916,7.8816073 7.78481199,8.39527139\" fill=\"currentColor\"\/><\/svg> \n    <\/span>\n            <span class=\"eh-social-sharing-button__copied_text\">\n            URL copied for sharing!        <\/span>\n    <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull eh-single-resource-whitepapers-layout has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-light-violet-50-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div id=\"stop-el\" class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-content-justification-space-between is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-15 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-link-arrow is-style-link-arrow--3\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-btn-brand-background-color has-background wp-element-button\" href=\"\/resources\/\">View all<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-query blog-3-col-query-loop is-layout-flow wp-block-query-is-layout-flow\"><ul class=\"columns-3 alignfull wp-block-post-template is-layout-grid wp-container-core-post-template-is-layout-1 wp-block-post-template-is-layout-grid\"><li class=\"wp-block-post post-59127 resources type-resources status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry resource-type-webinar search-tags-global-employment search-tags-hr-strategy search-tags-ondemand-webinar search-tags-recruitment search-tags-workplace-compliance\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-18 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/global-hr-recruiting-compliance-webinar\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1080\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Navigating Global HR: Recruiting, Compliance, and Culture\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1.webp 1920w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1-300x169.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1-1024x576.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1-768x432.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1-1536x864.webp 1536w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/2608_webinar_Navigating-Global-HR-Recruiting-Compliance-and-Culture-1-440x248.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-3 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-17 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-16 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2025\/04\/Webinar.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/webinar\/\" rel=\"tag\">Webinars<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/global-hr-recruiting-compliance-webinar\/\" target=\"_self\" >Navigating Global HR: Recruiting, Compliance, and Culture<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-2\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Cross-border HR shouldn&#8217;t mean cross-border confusion. Get practical tips on global recruiting, compliance and culture. Watch the free webinar now. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/global-hr-recruiting-compliance-webinar\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Navigating Global HR: Recruiting, Compliance, and Culture<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/global-hr-recruiting-compliance-webinar\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-59069 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-uncategorized resource-type-blog\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-21 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/blog\/hero-exchange-august-2026\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1707\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-scaled.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"AI and the future of work: inside Hero Exchange in Tauranga and Hamilton\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-scaled.webp 2560w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-2048x1366.webp 2048w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/260611_Hero-68-440x293.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-6 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-20 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-19 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2021\/07\/Lifecycle_header.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/blog\/\" rel=\"tag\">Blogs<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/blog\/hero-exchange-august-2026\/\" target=\"_self\" >AI and the future of work: inside Hero Exchange in Tauranga and Hamilton<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-5\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">AI, hiring and the future of work took centre stage as Hero Exchange visited Tauranga and Hamilton. Here&#8217;s what business&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/blog\/hero-exchange-august-2026\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: AI and the future of work: inside Hero Exchange in Tauranga and Hamilton<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/blog\/hero-exchange-august-2026\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><li class=\"wp-block-post post-59029 resources type-resources status-publish has-post-thumbnail hentry resource-type-guides-and-playbooks\">\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-border-color has-neutral-100-border-color has-white-background-color has-background is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-24 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"border-width:1px;min-height:100%\"><figure style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;width:100%;height:100%; padding-bottom:0;padding-top:0;margin-bottom:0;\" class=\"wp-block-post-featured-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/onboarding\/\" target=\"_self\"  style=\"height:100%\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1728\" height=\"1014\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail.webp\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Employer Playbook: What is onboarding?\" style=\"width:100%;height:100%;object-fit:cover;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail.webp 1728w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-300x176.webp 300w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-1024x601.webp 1024w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-768x451.webp 768w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-1536x901.webp 1536w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-864x508.webp 864w, https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/Onboarding_Thumbnail-440x258.webp 440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1728px) 100vw, 1728px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group blog-3-col-details wp-container-content-9 is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-nowrap is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-23 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--10)\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-22 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\"><div style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600\" class=\"taxonomy-resource-type eh-resource-type wp-block-post-terms\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-post-terms-icon\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" alt=\"icon-blog\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2025\/04\/Blog.png\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/guides-and-playbooks\/\" rel=\"tag\">Guides and Playbooks<\/a><\/div>\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-post-title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/onboarding\/\" target=\"_self\" >Employer Playbook: What is onboarding?<\/a><\/h3>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt has-text-color has-contrast-2-color has-small-font-size wp-container-content-8\"><p class=\"wp-block-post-excerpt__excerpt\">Real onboarding starts at offer acceptance, spans 90 days and is the #1 source of HR errors. Here&#8217;s how to&hellip; <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<a style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:600;\" class=\"wp-elements-9dfcbcb7662772ecb2d671e8976a6c51 wp-block-read-more has-text-color has-violet-500-color\" href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/onboarding\/\" target=\"_self\">Read more<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">: Employer Playbook: What is onboarding?<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/resources\/onboarding\/\" target=\"_self\" class=\"group-block-link\"><\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to manage medical incapacity termination fairly and lawfully. Understand legal obligations, the termination process and best practice for supporting employees.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":52145,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"_visual_mode":"business","_lite_auth_enabled":false,"_lite_auth_trigger_method":"scroll","_lite_auth_scroll_percent":25,"_lite_auth_click_element_query":"","exclude_from_algolia":false,"reading_time":"6 min read","display_reading_time":false,"registration_open_datetime":"","registration_close_datetime":"","event_start_datetime":"","event_end_datetime":"","time_zone":"","location":"","link_video":"","wistia_video_id":"","video_type":"","file_video":"","download_content_type":"file","download_file":"52144","download_url":"","download_cta_label":"","homepage_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"resource-type":[167],"topic":[379],"learn_topic":[],"industry":[],"search-tags":[],"audience":[],"business-size":[],"product-tag":[],"funnel-stage":[],"region":[],"pain-point":[],"persona":[],"post_features":[],"class_list":["post-52141","resources","type-resources","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","resource-type-factsheets","topic-workplace-compliance"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/52141","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/resources"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/52141\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":52418,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/52141\/revisions\/52418"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/52145"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=52141"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"resource-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resource-type?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"topic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topic?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"learn_topic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/learn_topic?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"search-tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/search-tags?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"audience","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/audience?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"business-size","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/business-size?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"product-tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product-tag?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"funnel-stage","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/funnel-stage?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"region","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/region?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"pain-point","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pain-point?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=52141"},{"taxonomy":"post_features","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/employmenthero.com\/nz\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_features?post=52141"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}