Understanding the Duration of Parental Leave in New Zealand- A Comprehensive Guide
How long is parental leave in NZ?
Parental leave in New Zealand is a significant benefit provided to parents to support them during the crucial early stages of their child’s life. Understanding the duration of this leave is essential for parents-to-be to plan their work and personal lives accordingly. In this article, we will delve into the details of parental leave in New Zealand, including its duration, eligibility criteria, and the process of applying for it.
The duration of parental leave in New Zealand is quite generous, offering parents up to 52 weeks of paid leave. This period can be shared between both parents, allowing them to adjust their work schedules to better accommodate their family needs. The leave can be taken consecutively or intermittently, depending on the parents’ preferences and the requirements of their employers.
For the first 6 weeks of the parental leave, parents are entitled to receive the New Zealand Government’s Paid Parental Leave (PPL) benefit. This benefit is calculated based on the parent’s average weekly income over the 13 weeks before the birth or adoption of the child. The PPL benefit is tax-free and is designed to help parents cover their living expenses during this period.
After the initial 6 weeks, parents can apply for the Extended Parental Leave (EPL) benefit, which provides an additional 46 weeks of leave. The EPL benefit is also calculated based on the parent’s income, but it is lower than the PPL benefit. It is important to note that the EPL benefit is not tax-free and is subject to income tax.
To be eligible for parental leave in New Zealand, parents must meet certain criteria:
1. The child must be under 22 years of age, or under 25 years of age if they have a disability.
2. The parent must have worked for at least 10 hours a week in New Zealand for at least 52 weeks before the birth or adoption of the child.
3. The parent must have earned at least $150 per week from their employment during the 52-week period.
The process of applying for parental leave involves the following steps:
1. Inform your employer of your intention to take parental leave at least 4 weeks before the expected start date.
2. Complete the necessary forms, including the Parental Leave Application form and the Parental Leave Agreement form.
3. Submit the forms to your employer, who will then process your application.
4. Once your application is approved, you will receive the Paid Parental Leave (PPL) benefit for the first 6 weeks.
5. After the PPL benefit ends, you can apply for the Extended Parental Leave (EPL) benefit by contacting Inland Revenue.
In conclusion, New Zealand offers a comprehensive parental leave system that provides parents with ample time to bond with their newborns and adapt to their new roles as parents. With up to 52 weeks of paid leave available, parents can rest assured that they have the support they need to start their family life on the right foot.
