Do I have workplace rights as a carer in New Zealand?
Yes. While there is no single “carer leave entitlement” that applies in every situation, employees are protected under workplace law and may be able to access flexible working arrangements, sick leave (if used for dependent care in some circumstances), and emergency leave.
Employers must also act in good faith and consider reasonable requests for flexibility.
Find out more:
Employment New Zealand
Visit website
Can I request flexible working because I’m caring for someone with cancer?
Yes. You can request flexible working arrangements at any time, including changes to hours, location, or workload. Employers must consider your request and respond in good faith.
Flexible arrangements may include:
- Adjusted start and finish times
- Remote or hybrid work
- Reduced hours temporarily
- Short-term workload adjustments
Flexibility is often the most effective way to maintain employment while caring.
Find out more:
Employment New Zealand
Visit website
Do I have to tell my employer I am caring for someone with cancer?
No. You are not legally required to share personal caregiving details.
However, sharing enough information to explain your need for flexibility can help your employer support you more effectively and plan workload adjustments.
You can choose:
- How much you share
- Who you share it with
- When you share it
You are in control of your privacy.
What leave options are available if I need time off?
Leave options may depend on your employment agreement, but commonly include:
- Sick leave (in some cases for caring for dependents)
- Annual leave
- Unpaid leave agreed with your employer
- Flexible arrangements to reduce the need for formal leave
If caring responsibilities become urgent or ongoing, it is worth discussing options early with your employer.
Find out more:
Employment New Zealand
Visit website
What support can I ask for at work as a carer?
Support will depend on your role, but commonly includes:
- Temporary workload reduction
- Flexible or remote working
- Time off for hospital appointments or emergencies
- Adjusted deadlines or responsibilities
- Regular check-ins with your manager
Support works best when discussed early, before capacity becomes stretched.
What if I am struggling to manage both work and caring?
It is common for caring responsibilities and work demands to become harder to balance over time, especially during treatment cycles.
If this happens, you can:
- Request further flexibility
- Review workload with your employer
- Explore leave options
- Seek external support services
You do not need to wait until you are overwhelmed to ask for help.
Find out more support options:
Carers NZ
Visit website
Can I be treated unfairly because I am a carer?
You should not be treated unfairly for having caring responsibilities. While caregiving itself is not a protected characteristic in all cases, discrimination laws protect employees from unfair treatment based on related circumstances, including family responsibilities in certain contexts.
If you feel you are being treated unfairly, you can seek advice or raise a concern internally or externally.
Find out more on discrimination at work:
Visit website
Where can I get financial or practical support as a carer?
If caring responsibilities affect your ability to work, you may be eligible for support depending on your situation.
Support pathways include:
- Income assistance through Work and Income
- Carer support services and respite options
- Community-based support organisations
- Employer-provided assistance (EAP or wellbeing services)
Find out more:
Work and Income
Visit website
Carers NZ
Visit website
Honest advice
Caring while working is not something you have to manage alone or at full capacity all the time. Early conversations, clear boundaries, and understanding your rights can make a significant difference to both your wellbeing and your ability to stay in work sustainably, while continuing to care for your special person.
