Pay disputes are more common than you might think, and they can arise for a variety of reasons. In some cases, it’s simply an oversight by your employer—an easy fix that can be resolved with a quick conversation. But other times, the issue runs deeper, leaving you feeling frustrated and unsure of how to proceed. When a simple inquiry doesn’t resolve the problem, it can be daunting to tackle the situation on your own. That’s where we come in. Whether it’s a misunderstanding or a more complex dispute, we’re here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive what you're owed.
To help you get the support you need, we may ask for some key documents. Your employment contract is a great place to start—it outlines your agreed-upon pay, hours, and conditions. Having a copy on hand can help us better understand your situation.
Your recent payslips (from the last three to six months) are also important. These let us see what you’ve been paid and identify any discrepancies. If you track your hours, bringing in timesheets or work records can help us compare what you’ve worked with what you’ve been paid.
If you’ve raised concerns with your employer, any emails, messages, or written notices discussing the issue can be useful. These help us understand what’s already been communicated and whether any action has been taken.
In some cases, your bank statements can be helpful in cross-checking the payments you’ve received. If deductions like PAYE, student loans, or child support seem incorrect, any records related to those can help us ensure everything adds up.
Bringing these documents will allow us to assess your situation accurately and provide the best possible advice. No matter your concerns, we’re here to support you and help you find a fair resolution.
Once we have a clear understanding of your situation, we can guide you through your next steps. Our team is here to listen, advise, and advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights as a worker are upheld.
If there’s been a misunderstanding or dispute with your employer, we can help you communicate effectively and seek a fair resolution. This might involve providing guidance on how to address the issue directly with your employer or assisting in drafting a formal request for clarification.
In situations where direct communication and initial mediation efforts do not resolve workplace disputes, engaging a neutral third-party mediator can be an effective next step.The Employment Mediation Services within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) offers a free and confidential mediation service to assist employers and employees in resolving employment relationship problems.
Mediation is a voluntary process where an impartial mediator facilitates discussions between the parties to help them reach a mutually acceptable resolution. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions but assists in clarifying issues and exploring potential solutions. This process is designed to be straightforward and informal, providing a safe environment for both parties to express their perspectives.
If the dispute remains unresolved after mediation, it may be escalated to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA), an independent body that investigates and makes determinations on employment disputes. The ERA provides a more formal setting for dispute resolution and has the authority to make binding decisions. We will write about this in a further article (TBA).
We believe that everyone deserves fairness and respect in the workplace. Whether you need guidance, mediation, or advocacy, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
If you're facing workplace issues and need assistance, don't hesitate to contact us.
📞 Phone: 027 296 5276
📧 Email: tautoko@cwc.org.nz
🌐 Website: www.cwc.org.nz
Reach out today—your rights matter, and we are here to help you protect them.
Ngā mihi
The Coromandel Workers Council Team
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