Council HQ building

Selwyn District Council is taking steps to ensure current and former employees are paid correctly under the Holidays Act 2003, following issues affecting employers across New Zealand.

The Act sets out how leave entitlements such as annual, sick, and bereavement leave must be calculated and paid. Due to the complexity of the legislation, many employers and their payroll systems, including those used by the Council, have historically misinterpreted aspects of the Act, resulting in underpayments for some employees.

“We are committed to doing the right thing,” says Steve Gibling Executive Director People Culture and Capability. “We’ve worked with PricewaterhouseCoopers and our payroll providers to identify affected employees and calculate the remediation payments owed. This process ensures that everyone receives what they are or were entitled to.”

Employees who worked for the Council between 1 June 2010 and 25 June 2023 may be eligible for a remediation payment. Those most likely to be affected include individuals who:

  • Changed the number of days they worked per week
  • Worked substantial overtime
  • Had variable working patterns or pay rates

Remediation payments have now been paid to affected current staff.

“We are now working through the process of contacting former employees using their last known contact details. If you believe you are eligible for a remediation payment and have not been contacted, please visit our website.”

The Council continues to actively review its payroll systems to ensure compliance with the Holidays Act and prevent future discrepancies.

For more information or to update your contact details, visit selwyn.govt.nz/holidaysact or email holidaysactremediation@selwyn.govt.nz.

Last modified: 09 Jul 2025 10:00am