Why Fair Process Must Be a Priority for Every Employer

Published 12 February 2026 | 4 min read

A recent Employment Relations Authority decision has reinforced just how crucial a fair and transparent process is when dealing with workplace discipline. In this case, an employee who was dismissed after being filmed sleeping during her shift successfully challenged the termination.

The Authority found that, despite the conduct concerns, the employer did not follow a fair or reasonable procedure before dismissing her. As a result, the company was ordered to pay significant compensation, including six months’ lost wages and nearly $19,000 for hurt and humiliation.

This decision is a strong reminder that under New Zealand employment law, how an employer handles a situation can be just as important as why. Robust, fair process remains essential to avoiding costly unjustified dismissal claims.

Read the full article on Stuff by Erin Johnson for more detail: Woman fired after being filmed sleeping at work awarded 6 months’ pay and nearly $19k compensation.