Mediation Support at Employee First NZ

At Employee First NZ, we empower employees throughout New Zealand with expert employment advocacy to guide them through workplace challenges like mediation. If an employment issue cannot be resolved informally, our mediation support can help you reach a fair agreement with confidence.

What is Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential, and safe process where employers and employees address work-related problems with the help of an independent mediator. Facilitated by Employment Mediation Services within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), this free service supports resolving employment relationship problems in a semi-formal setting. Unlike court, mediation does not involve oaths or cross-examinations. The mediator helps both parties discuss issues, understand perspectives, and find mutually agreeable solutions, which can be made legally binding. You can bring support, such as whānau, an advocate, or a lawyer, to mediation, which may involve meetings, video conferences, or phone calls.

Our AI-driven tools at Employee First NZ provide preliminary guidance to help you prepare for mediation, ensuring you understand the process and feel supported every step of the way.

What Are Your Rights in Mediation?

Mediation through Employment Mediation Services is designed to protect your interests as an employee. Key rights include:

• Voluntary Participation: Mediation is optional, but participating demonstrates good faith in resolving workplace issues. If you opt out, the other party may escalate the matter to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA), which could mandate mediation.

• Confidentiality: Discussions and documents in mediation are private and cannot be used as evidence in the ERA or Employment Court, unless created outside the mediation process or confidentiality is waived.

• Impartiality: Mediators remain neutral, ensuring a fair process without taking sides.

• Free Access: MBIE’s mediation services are free, though costs may arise if you hire a representative, such as an advocate or lawyer.

• Support Options: You can bring a support person, such as whānau, an advocate, or a union representative, to assist during mediation.

Employee First NZ’s AI assistance is available anytime, anywhere, offering tailored insights into your rights and helping you prepare for mediation with confidence.

How Employee First NZ Can Assist with Mediation

At Employee First NZ, we specialise in supporting through workplace challenges, including mediation. Our state-of-the-art AI assistance provides instant, tailored guidance to help you understand the mediation process, prepare effectively, and clarify your goals before engaging with Employment Mediation Services. While our AI tools offer preliminary advice to empower you, our expert advocates are ready to step in for personalised support, ensuring your voice is heard and your interests are protected.

We assist by:

• Guiding Preparation: Our expert advocates help you identify key issues, gather relevant documents, and articulate your desired outcomes before mediation.

• Explaining the Process: We provide clear, accessible information on what to expect during mediation, from initial meetings to potential outcomes like financial compensation, apologies, or reinstatement.

• Connecting You to Resources: We streamline access to MBIE’s free mediation services and provide hassle-free assistance.

• Advocacy Support: Our experienced advocates can represent you during mediation, ensuring fair treatment and helping negotiate legally binding agreements.

With Employee First NZ, you’re never alone in navigating workplace disputes. Our innovative AI assistance and expert advocacy empower you to resolve issues confidently, ensuring your rights are upheld.