Maternity leave entitlements

If you're currently working during your pregnancy, it's important to think about what you're going to when you have your baby. There's lots of factors that influence the decision of when, or if, you return to work, but understanding your entitlements is the place to begin.

If you are an employee, having a baby means that you have certain entitlements related to leave.

Parental leave

In New Zealand, men and women are able to take time off work, without having to resign, to care for their child during the first year of its life.

Female employees are eligible for parental leave if you have either worked for the same employer for an average of at least 10 hours a week (including at least one hour in every week or 40 hours in every month) in the six or 12 months prior to the babys expected due date (or the date you have assumed the care of a child you intend to adopt.

There are different entitlements depended on the 12 or six month criteria.

To calculate if you are entitled to parental leave, click here.

Unpaid Parental leave entitlements

The Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987 provides for unpaid leave from work for birth mothers and their partner/spouses either on the birth of a child, or the adoption of a child under 5 years.

Maternity leave of 14 continuous weeks may start up to six weeks before the expected date of birth or adoption (or earlier if necessary). Special leave (eg for ante natal appointments) of up to 10 days can be taken. Partner/paternity leave can also be taken - its duration dependent on the length of service.

Extended leave of up to 52 weeks is available (and can be shared by both eligible parents).

Special leave of up to 10 days is available to a mother before maternity leave for reasons connected with pregnancy.

Partner's/paternity leave of either one or two weeks (depending on eliglbel service) is available and can be extended in certain circumstances.

For full details , visit the the Department of Labour website.

Applying for leave


Apply in writing, at least 3 months prior to the due date (this varies for adoption) stating what type of leave you want, the start date and the duration. If you are sharing the leave with your spouse/partner you need to state the dates they are planning leave, their name and the name and address of their employer. You also need to state that you are both eligible for the leave and that you will not be taking more than 52 weeks.

Include a certificate (or copy) of the babys due date from the doctor or midwife. Your spouse/partner will need a written declaration from you stating that they are your spouse/partner and they will share the care of the child.

For full details , visit the the Department of Labour website.

Paid Parental Leave

Paid leave is available to femail employees who give birth to a child or to a person who adopts a child. It is available to either parent where a couple has assumed the care of a chid under six they intend to jointly adopt.

For full details visit the Department of Labour Parental Leave brochure.

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