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  • Step 2: Finding | CGF Employer Toolkit

    The most flexible way to find candidates is through advertisements which can be shared in different places. Using the advice above about how to communicate the role during this process is important to gain interest from the right people. Other ways can be used too, such as through an industry specific recruitment agency or through your networks (see below for more information on use of networks). Step 2: Finding How to begin to start finding new employees? See Below for Information on: Building a Job Ad Posting Job Ads Applications Migrant Workers The most flexible way to find candidates is through advertisements which can be shared in different places. Using the advice above about how to communicate the role during this process is important to gain interest from the right people. Other ways can be used too, such as through an industry specific recruitment agency or through your networks (see below for more information on use of networks). When advertising a job, it’s important to make it straightforward and simple for candidates to apply. Choosing the right application method for the role is also key to finding the right person. How do I write a job ad? The first impression your candidates will have of your role is likely through a job ad, so it's important to get it right. Below is an example of a job ad for a Joiner role. Even if this specific job isn’t relevant to your business, we've described on the right what each part of the job ad should contain to ensure clear communication. Job Title: Joiner Location: Matamata, Waikato, New Zealand About us: We are a family-owned joinery business that has been operating successfully for 20 years. Our team is a supportive and we consider our business as a friendly place to work, and we are looking for someone who would be a great addition to the team. We value hard work to get the job done. Quick Role Description: Y o u will be responsible for manufacturing, assembling, and installing a range of timber products and custom joinery. You will work from plans and specifications to ensure projects are completed accurately, efficiently, and to a high standard. Key Responsibilities: Manufacture and assemble custom joinery Read and interpret plans, drawings, and specifications Operate woodworking machinery, power tools, hand tools safely Install joinery onsite when required Requirements: Right to work in New Zealand Relevant trade qualification preferred Previous experience as a Joiner, Cabinetmaker, or in a similar role Strong work ethic and reliability Ability to work well in a team Benefits: Competitive hourly rate Opportunity to learn new skills and grow within the business Supportive and friendly team environment Ongoing pipeline of regular work How to Apply: To apply, please send your CV and a brief cover letter to [email@example.com ] or call [phone number] for more information. Closing Statement: We look forward to hearing from you. Be clear and accurately reflect the role in the job title. Use terms that applicants will recognise and understand. Help candidates identify if they can commute or need to relocate. Introduce your business so candidates understand who they might work for. Give a concise summary of what the job involves List the main duties involved in day-to-day work. The more specific you can be, the better. Clearly state the skills, experience, and personality type needed. Don’t try to hide any harder sells for the job (such as early working hours, remote location). Why should this person work for you and not your competitors? If you are providing competitive pay or benefits, call this out here. Make it easy for interested candidates to apply with simple instructions. A CV and cover letter might not always be necessary. A friendly sign off. Where do I share a job ad? Once you've created a job ad, it's important to get as much traction and interest as possible to find the right person. Posting your job ad in multiple places can increase your chances of finding the ideal candidate. Here are some options: Job Ad Websites: Use dedicated job ad websites such as TradeMe and Seek.co.nz to reach a wide audience Social Media Groups: Post in relevant social media groups, like on Facebook Local Community Boards: Put up your ad on local community boards. Finding School Leavers For entry-level positions, it might be helpful to reach out to local high schools to see if any upcoming school leavers are interested in your role. Taking the time to meet those who show interest and explaining the job face-to-face can be a great way to get them excited about joining your business. If you're running a larger operation, think about offering an internship programme where students can work for you over the summer. This gives them a taste of the job and lets you see how they'd fit in as full-time workers if you're looking to hire them once they finish school. You can see some more information here. Industry-School Engagement Starter Kit Small and medium employers often want to work with schools but are not sure where to start or have tried once and found it hard to keep going. 
Different calendars, language, and expectations can make it difficult to turn goodwill into a clear plan that works for both sides. The Inspiring the Next Generation Starter Kit is designed for those employers.
It offers simple, practical guidance to help you connect with schools, engage with students, and build a future talent pipeline into vocational careers. Developed with ConCOVE Tūhura, ThinkPlace, and a wide range of sector stakeholders, the Starter Kit brings together insight from educators, employers, and people who sit between both worlds. Download Inspiring The Next Generation Starter Kit Word of Mouth Word of mouth is also effective. Ask current employees and trusted friends and family members if they know anyone who might be interested. Even when using word of mouth, it’s helpful to send the job ad to the candidate so they know the skills and experience you're looking for. When using social media, you can shorten the job ad to convey just the essential information in a quick and casual way. Also think about how the candidate will need to apply for the job. Provide a simple and clear method for them to get in touch (see below for more information). Job Platforms There are some great platforms available that are used by most sectors such as: Seek TradeMe You can also consider listing a vacancy with the Work and Income website here . Applications Before you post your role, it's important to think about how candidates will apply. There are a range of different methods, ranging from formal to informal, including: CV Cover Letter Phone Call Application Form. When deciding on the application method, consider the skills you’re looking for. If the role is hands-on and needs someone skilled in operating equipment, then reading and writing ability may not be as important. In these cases, CVs and cover letters might not attract the right candidates. Instead, a simple application form or use of a phone call could be more effective. Once you have decided what method you want to use , make sure you add the application directions to the bottom of your job ad. Social Media When advertising using social media, like Facebook, it’s especially important to outline how to apply to get the information you need. This may look different than using other ways of advertising. Here are a couple of approaches: Attach an Application Form: Include a simple application form in your post that candidates can fill out Ask for a Message: Request that candidates message you a little bit about themselves, including their background, experience, skills, and qualifications. By tailoring the application process to the role and clearly communicating how to apply, you’ll increase your chances of attracting the right candidates and make the selection process smoother. How do I hire migrant workers? Where you look for workers can greatly impact the quality of candidates you find. While Aotearoa New Zealand offers a great pool of potential workers, sometimes looking abroad can help you find the skills you need. To hire people from overseas, there are schemes and visas available which will help you in your search. See the Employment NZ website or Immigration New Zealand website for more information. What should I keep in mind when hiring impaired workers? Have you considered the strengths people with impairments could bring to your team in the construction sector? Many individuals with impairments have developed adaptability, resilience, and creative problem-solving skills—qualities that are highly valuable in today’s workplaces. Their unique perspectives can spark innovation, improve systems, and strengthen team performance. Inclusion also enhances workplace culture. Diverse teams often enjoy higher morale, broader thinking, and stronger collaboration. Employers who actively support accessibility demonstrate leadership and values that resonate with both staff and customers. Creating an inclusive environment is more achievable than many assume. With practical tools, advice, and funding support readily available (such as minimum wage exemptions ), implementing accommodations can be straightforward. Reviewing roles to identify flexible approaches, and investing in impairment awareness training, helps build a respectful, welcoming culture where everyone can thrive. Ultimately, embracing impairment inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart move that strengthens teams, unlocks talent, and helps the sector grow through fresh insights and capabilities. Click here for more on Step 3: Assessing

  • Step 6: Welcoming | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Having a strong welcoming / onboarding process is crucial to retaining employees. The first three months on the job are essential as a poor welcome can be a strong motivator for new hires to leave. Why should I onboard new employees? What should I do to prepare for onboarding? Step 6: Welcoming (onboarding) How do I welcome new employees? See Below for Information on: Benefits of Onboarding Preparing for new employees Day One Activities Week One Activities First Three Month Activities Having a strong welcoming process is crucial to retaining employees. The first three months on the job are essential, as a poor welcome can be a strong motivator for new hires to leave. Why should I onboard new employees? Welcoming new employees is important for several reasons: Smooth Transition: It helps them quickly get used to the way you do business and who their teammates are Role Clarity: Good onboarding helps new team members understand their role and what is expected of them Training and Productivity: Accurately training employees on their tasks boosts productivity and overall job satisfaction Workplace Culture: A good onboarding process makes the new employee feel welcomed into your workplace culture, enhancing their wellbeing at work. By focusing on how the employee feels about their work and how integrated they are into the workplace, you can significantly boost the chance of them staying with your business longer. How should I prepare to welcome new employees? Before your new employee arrives, it's important to inform your team and prepare for the welcoming process. This includes setting up a buddy system, which you can read more about in Workplace Wellbeing and Culture . Here are some steps to take during this phase: Inform Current Employees : Let your team know about the new arrival and what their role will be Identify a Buddy : Choose a buddy for the new employee who can help them settle in Prepare the Buddy : Provide the buddy with checklists of what needs to be completed and the expectations of their role Schedule Training and Induction Sessions : Organise any necessary training and induction sessions to help the new employee get up to speed. What should I do on day one? An employee's first day should be relaxed while focused on setting them up with the right information and letting them get to know the team. While welcoming plans will differ from business to business, some suggested activities are listed below: Manager Responsibilities Meet and Greet: Meet the employee at an agreed location and time on their first day. Depending on how you conduct your welcomes, a mihi whakatau or a pōwhiri may be an appropriate way to welcome your new employee. For more information see Māori Cultural Confidence Introductions (whakawhanaungatanga) : Introduce the employee to the team and their buddy to build connections and relationships Complete Paperwork : Finalise any outstanding paperwork (see above for more information) End-of-Day Meeting : Schedule a brief meeting at the end of the day to address any questions or concerns. Buddy Responsibilities (or other responsible person) While these tasks may be delegated, it is ultimately the employer's responsbility. Tour: Give them a tour of the grounds or facilities Policies and Procedures: Go over key business policies or procedures Health and Safety: Provide a health and safety briefing Training and Induction: Deliver scheduled training and induction sessions for their role Equipment Setup: Ensure the new employee has all the right equipment. What should I do on week one? The first week should build on the activities of day one, ensuring the new employee feels welcomed and comfortable with their role and expectations. Here are some suggestions: Manager Responsibilities End-of-Week Meeting: Schedule a meeting at the end of the week to discuss the employee's progress and any challenges they might be facing. Allow time for the new employee to provide feedback and address any questions or concerns. Buddy Responsibilities (or other responsible person) Training and Induction: Complete any scheduled training and induction sessions for their role Tool and System Familiarity: Ensure the employee is comfortable using all necessary tools and systems Shadowing Sessions: Set up shadowing sessions where the new employee can observe their buddy or a colleague to learn about day-to-day tasks Planning: Set a plan for the following months to ensure the employee is confident in their role. What should I do in the first three months? The next three months builds upon the activities of week one to ensure the new employee is confident in their role, understands what is expected of them, and delivers to the best of their ability. Here are some suggested actions: Manager Responsibilities Skill Development: Identify areas where skill development is needed and build a plan to address this. See Training and Development for a step by step process of how to effectively do this Setting Expectations: Set clear expectations for the role and performance moving forward. Buddy Responsibilities (or other responsible person) Regular Check-ins: Conduct regular check-ins to ensure the employee is fitting in well Ongoing Training: Continue delivering training and induction sessions as needed Skill Assessment: Test the employee's ability to operate tools and equipment if necessary. Click here to find out more in our Case Study Example

  • What Good Mentoring and Coaching Looks Like | CGF Employer Toolkit

    A good mentoring and coaching system in the construction sector incorporates the Tuakana-Teina concept, which emphasises the relationship between an experienced mentor and a less experienced mentee. It takes into account how people learn, the inherent value of mentoring and coaching, and the essential elements that contribute to effective mentoring and coaching practices. What Good Looks Like What does a good mentoring and coaching system look like? See Below for Information on: Tuakana & Teina How People Learn The Value Key Elements Understanding tuakana and teina (Māori mentoring/coaching concept) Learning is a shared journey, often involving many parties. This is no different in te ao Māori. The term tuakana can be understood as an older sibling, and teina can be understood as the younger sibling. In the context of mentoring and coaching, the relationship between tuakana and teina can be understood as a more senior experienced individual (tuakana) supporting a younger less experienced individual (teina) to learn and grow. In many cases this relationship can lead to mutual learning. This gradual, mutual learning process is known as 'ako' in te ao Māori, and it includes the dual roles found in the tuakana-teina relationship. The aim is to help learners feel a sense of belonging in their learning environment and to provide any additional support they might need. This relationship goes both ways and is voluntary, with both parties learning from each other, rather than being driven by monetary value. This dynamic is context specific, for example in your workplace the mentor may represent the tuakana and a new hire may represent the teina. But in a different situation this relationship may change. For example, in a cultural environment the new hire may actually be the tuakana, and the mentor may be the teina. This is something to be aware of. How do people learn? The 70:20:10 rule provides a useful rule of thumb for understanding how people learn and develop: What is the value of mentoring and coaching? Mentoring and coaching is important for the following reasons. Enhanced performance: Mentoring and coaching improves employee performance by providing guidance, support, and feedback that they need. Increased retention : When your employee feels supported and can see clear paths for growth they are more likely to stick around. Improved confidence : Regular chats with mentors and coaches can boost confidence and people skills, leading to better decision-making and leadership. Creating a positive culture : A culture of mentoring and coaching encourages teamwork, respect, and trust, making your workplace a more supportive and productive place. What are the key elements to good mentoring and coaching? Set practical goals : Help your mentee set achievable goals using a goal-setting framework and provide long-term career guidance to foster overall professional growth. Listen and understand : Listen patiently to understand your mentee's aspirations and regularly check in on their well-being and mental health. Share experience and advice : Offer your insights and advice, even if you're not an expert, to provide an outside perspective that can help with skill development and navigating work-related challenges. Recommend resources : Suggest useful tasks, books, events, podcasts, and blogs to help your mentee develop and enhance their skills. Encourage independence and confidence : Inspire your mentee to tackle challenging goals, respect their confidentiality, and ensure they feel a sense of independence while offering support when needed. Click here to find out more on Actions to Take

  • Attracting the Right Individuals | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Finding and supporting the right individuals is crucial for retention, as many new employees leave within the first 90 days due to unmet expectations (Jobvite, 2018). It's essential to get the basics right from the start. Six steps outlined below illustrate a good hiring process to help find the right person and ensure a smooth experience, reducing turnover risk. Note that this chapter's information is not legal advice; consult a professional if uncertain. Attracting the Right Individuals How do I hire and onboard new employees so they stay longer? Finding the right individuals and giving them support can make all the difference in retaining them. Studies show that many new employees leave within the first 90 days because the job isn't what they expected (Jobvite, 2018 ). So, it’s important you get the basics right from the beginning. To help communicate what a good hiring process looks like, six steps have been outlined in the diagram below which you could take to increase your chances of finding the right person. Following these steps can support a smooth experience for both you and the new employee, reducing the risk of them leaving. This chapter also refers to ‘candidates’. This is simply people who have applied for a job. Please note that the information provided in this chapter is not legal advice. If you are uncertain on any information presented, we recommend you seek advice from a professional. The 6 steps of hiring good employees 1 Preparing Why should an employee work for me? How do I communicate the job well? 2 Finding How do I write a job ad and gain interest? Where do I share a job ad? How do I hire migrant workers? 3 Assessing How do I choose who to interview? 4 Selecting How do I interview the candidates? How do I conduct a trial during an interview process? 5 Hiring How do I complete tests and checks? What are trials and probationary periods? How do I negotiate the employment agreement and pay? What Employment paperwork needs to be completed? 6 Onboarding Why should I onboard staff? What should I do to prepare for onboarding? What should I do on day 1? What should I do during week 1? What should I do in the first 3 months? View More Step One Preparing View More Step Two Finding View More Step Three Assessing View More Step Four Selecting View More Step Five Hiring View More Step Six Welcoming What does it look like? We have created some examples of what attracting the right individuals looks like at different levels of ability See Here Find more information and help here Some extra resources can be found below to check and further improve your recruitment and onboarding knowledge; Employment NZ: How to Hire (pdf) - A guide providing information about how to hire employees from the New Zealand government Business.govt.nz : Overview of the Hiring Process - A step by step and also visual guide to hiring from the New Zealand government Inland Revenue : First-Time Employers Guide - A guide on how to register as an employer with the New Zealand government Built Environment Career Streams - Navigating long-term careers in the construction industry Resources for hiring disabled workers; Let’s level up : realising the potential of the disabled workforce - a report commissioned by the construction workforce development council that focuses on how to realise the potential of the disabled workforce. MSD : Lead Toolkit - A Toolkit to guide you through the process of employing disabled people/ Diversity Works NZ : Top tips for a respectful work environment for all abilities Whaikaha : A report that unpacks the factors that contribute to social exclusion of disabled people Click here for more information on Step 1: Preparing

  • Mentorship & Coaching Case Study | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Two case studies are shown below for both mentoring and coaching. These highlight some of the common issues with coaching or mentoring and in contrast, the key good aspects of coaching and mentoring. What does good coaching and mentoring look like? Below are two illustrative examples of mentoring and coaching. They are not intended to represent any individual, organisation or industry. Mentor Coach Mentor Needs Addressing Excelling Jordan, a senior carpenter, is mentoring Brooklyn, a new apprentice. However, Jordan rarely finds time to meet with Brooklyn and often cancels their scheduled sessions. When they do meet, Jordan tends to dominate the conversation, offering advice that is not always relevant to Brooklyn’s interests in carpentry and construction. Brooklyn feels frustrated and unsupported, and is unsure about their future within the business. Darcy, a senior manager with over 20 years of experience in quantity surveying, is mentoring Charlie, a contractor from overseas. Darcy regularly meets with Charlie to discuss their career goals and provides Charlie with valuable insights into the industry. Darcy helps Charlie set long-term career goals and offers advice on developing their skills. Charlie feels supported and inspired, and has successfully navigated several challenging projects thanks to Darcy’s guidance. Coach Needs Addressing Excelling Taylor, a coach, is working with Riley, a new employee on the building site, on their time management skills. Taylor often provides generic advice without considering Riley’s unique circumstances. Taylor doesn’t follow up regularly, and Riley feels left to their own devices. As a result, Riley struggles to implement any meaningful changes, and their performance remains stagnant. Riley feels discouraged and doubts the effectiveness of the coaching process. Alex, a skilled coach, is working with Jesse, a building site supervisor, to improve their team communication skills. Alex schedules regular sessions with Jesse, where he uses active listening to understand Jesse's concerns and challenges. Alex guides Jesse in setting specific, achievable goals, such as daily stand up toolbox meetings, and helps develop a clear action plan. Alex provides constructive feedback and encourages Jesse, leading to noticeable improvements in herd wellbeing and productivity. Jesse feels more confident and capable in their role. Click here to find out more on Your Obligations as an Employer

  • Elements of Wellbeing | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Creating a happy and healthy workplace is important to ensure the job satisfaction of your employees. When our employees feel good and the work culture is positive, everyone benefits. A supportive and friendly workplace doesn't just increase job satisfaction—it also boosts productivity and keeps your team motivated and committed. Having a strong workplace wellbeing and culture presence can help you on this journey. Elements of Wellbeing How can I create a positive environment that boosts job satisfaction? See below for information on: Workplace Wellbeing Mental Wellbeing Physical Wellbeing Cultural Wellbeing Social Wellbeing What is workplace wellbeing and culture and why does it matter? Wellbeing includes different parts of a person's life that affect their overall health and happiness. This means that things happening outside of work can greatly affect how employees feel and perform at work. The following sections explore how these factors influence workplace wellbeing to help you consider practical tips and tricks for building a positive and healthy work culture. Each aspect of this is important as part of the whole. All are needed to support employee job satisfaction, productivity, and wellbeing. What is workplace wellbeing? Creating a positive workplace culture can set a business up for success. A positive culture not only attracts and retains skilled workers but also boosts productivity and job satisfaction. Workplace culture is the shared values, beliefs, and behaviours that shape how people interact and work together. It's about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and motivated to contribute their best. When building your workplace culture, see below some principles to keep in mind. Inclusivity and respect : Create an environment where everyone can feel included and respected. Recognise and celebrate different backgrounds and perspectives. Communication : Encourage open and honest communication. Make it easy for team members to share ideas, feedback, and concerns. Shared values : Clearly define and communicate the core values that guide your business. Ensure these values are reflected in everyday actions and decisions. Employee wellbeing : Give importance to wellbeing factors from outside of the workplace: the physical and mental wellbeing of your team. Provide resources and support to help them do well both at work and in their personal lives. Recognition and reward : Acknowledge and appreciate the hard work and achievements of your employees. Celebrate successes, both big and small through activities such as morning teas, and employee of the month awards. Tip! Different people value different things in a workplace - make sure to have a conversation with team members about how to develop the culture in a way that suits them. How do I build a positive workplace culture? Building a positive workplace culture Acting in good faith as an employer is outlined at Your Obligations as an Employer and on the Employment NZ website here. Beyond meeting these legal requirements, employers can take additional steps to create a positive workplace culture. By putting in effort to go above and beyond the legal requirements, you’ll have an environment where employees feel more valued and supported. This will help reduce the likelihood of them leaving for reasons within your control. The workforce demographic is changing fast, with younger generations preferring flexible learning and working environments, as well as having a say in their work processes. Here are some tips and tricks employers can implement to meet these evolving expectations. What are some practical steps I can take to support workplace wellbeing and culture? 1. Workplace Wellbeing Assess workplace culture: Start by asking your employees what they believe makes a good workplace culture. Understanding their perspectives can help you tailor initiatives that resonate with your team. Consider how elements of te ao Māori can enhance the workplace culture, see Māori Cultural Confidence for more information. Foster a positive environment: Create a workplace atmosphere that is supportive, respectful, and positive. Encourage teamwork and collaboration, and address any issues of conflict quickly and effectively. 2. Mental Wellbeing Put on your lifejacket first: Ensure you are looking after your own mental health, as leadership sets the tone for the entire organisation. Look out for others: Get to know how your staff view mental health, it may look different to different people. Encourage your staff to prioritise their mental health as well. Consider enrolling in a Mental Health First Aid course to better support your team. 3. Physical Wellbeing Health and safety obligations: Ensure you are complying with Worksafe NZ’s website here for health and safety guidelines. Enhance physical wellbeing: Think about ways you can go above and beyond minimum health and safety requirements to prevent burnout or injury. 4. Cultural Wellbeing Celebrate cultural diversity: Get to know your employees' cultural backgrounds and encourage them to share aspects of their culture with colleagues. This creates a more inclusive environment with meaningful workplace interactions. 5. Social Wellbeing Strengthen social bonds: Host social events, such as an end of year work-do to help your team connect and unwind. Connect over hobbies: Encourage employees to join clubs or collectives to build camaraderie and a sense of community. What are some tools I can use to build a good workplace culture? See the communications and buddy system pages for steps on how to plan or implement best practices. Team Building Activities : Organise team-building activities to strengthen relationships and foster a sense of community. These can range from informal social gatherings to structured meetings. Mentorship and Buddy Programmes : Introduce mentorship (see Mentorship and Coaching ) or buddy systems to provide support and guidance for new and existing employees. This helps build a culture of continuous learning and development. Communication Platforms : Use formal and informal social channels to facilitate easy and open communication among team members. Wellbeing Initiatives : Offer resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), workshops on stress management, or create time for the team to do some stretching at the start of a shift for ten minutes. Survey and Feedback Tools : Use regular surveys and feedback tools to review employee satisfaction and collect insights on areas for improvement (more on this in the communication section) . What does good workplace culture look like in reality? Building a strong workplace culture involves consistent, everyday actions. Here are some examples of what it may involve on a day to day basis. Daily Check Ins : Start each shift with a brief team check-in to share updates, celebrate wins, and address any challenges. This keeps everyone connected and aligned. Open Door Policy : Encourage leaders to maintain an open-door policy, making it easy for employees to approach them with questions or concerns as they may arise. Regular Connection : Implement regular recognition programs, such as Employee of the Month, to highlight and reward outstanding contributions. Training and Development : Offer ongoing Training and Development opportunities to help employees grow their skills and advance their careers. Inclusive Practices : Ensure all team activities, meetings, and communications are inclusive, considering different needs and preferences. Support for Māori in the workplace There are lots of ways you can support Māori employees. The Māori Cultural Confidence page has some practical tips and tricks such as understanding some te ao Māori concepts, being a values led workplace and how to incorporate some of these elements into your workplace. Te Whare Tapa Wha Te Whare Tapa Whā model, created by Sir Mason Durie, presents health and wellbeing as a wharenui or meeting house supported by four walls. Te Whare Tapa Whā which thinks about wellbeing from a physical (taha tinana), family and social (taha whānau), mental and emotional (taha hinengaro), spiritual (taha wairua) and land (whenua) perspective. This is very similar to the different elements of workplace culture described in this chapter. Achieving balance among these elements allows us to thrive, whereas an imbalance in one or more can affect our overall well being. To find out more about the parts of the wharenui, see the full resource Mental Health Foundation website here . Another example of a Māori framework of wellbeing is the Te Wheke model of Māori Health by Dr Rose Pere. You can find more information about this model here . These are some tools that help to support your employees in showing up as their best selves. Understanding what works best for your team is key to addressing well-being in the right way. Asking your employees questions to cover each aspect of their well-being, based on the Te Whare Tapa Whā framework, can look like this: Whenua / land, roots Do you feel connected to the people you work with? Is your work environment a safe place where you feel comfortable talking about your emotions? Taha hinengaro / mental and emotion Do you feel like you have a positive work / life balance? How do you manage your stress, and how can we support you? Taha tinana / physical Are there any health concerns or issues we should know about? Are you finding time for physical activities and exercise? How can we support you in this? Taha whanau / family and social Are you feeling connected and supported by your loved ones? Is your cultural background valued? How can we better support this? Taha wairua / spiritual Do you feel a sense of purpose and meaning while at work? Are there any cultural or spiritual practices that are important to you, and how can we support you in integrating these into your daily routine? What is mental wellbeing? Looking after yourself as an employer is really important. Our employees are the heart of this sector, which plays a big part in our country's economy and identity. But working in this sector isn't easy—there's physical challenges, economic concerns, environmental challenges, and lots of hard work. These can all add up and take a toll. Having access to mental health services in construction can be challenging. Live Well Build Well are a great resource of information. Click here . At some point, whether at work or in your personal life, you'll likely come across someone experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis, or you may experience one yourself. That's why it's important to make small, regular habits to care for your wellbeing. When you take care of yourself, you're also taking care of your business. Even with the long hours and external pressures, building personal resilience and looking after your wellbeing can help you handle the pressures of business better. After all, you're the most important part of your business. Employers responsibility of care As an employer, it's important to recognise that you have both ethical and legal obligations to care for your employees' mental health and wellbeing. Creating a supportive and safe working environment is not just a nice-to-have, it's essential. This means keeping an eye on your team’s workload, stress levels and any physical signs of stress. While you're not responsible for stress caused by factors outside of work, you do need to address any work-related issues that might be causing stress, such as high workloads, lack of safety measures, bullying, or a negative work culture. Your responsibility extends to ensuring compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, which mandates that all workplaces must support mentally healthy work environments. By prioritising mental health, you'll not only meet your legal obligations but also foster a more engaged and productive workforce Mental health first aid course: The Mental Health first aid course is a good tool for giving employers the skills, knowledge, and confidence to support people when they need it. Gen Z / younger workers have higher rates of mental health issues Nearly two-thirds (65%) of Gen Z / younger workers reported experiencing at least one mental health problem in the past two years, a higher rate than all older generations, including millennials (51%), Gen X (29%) and Boomers (14%). Therefore acknowledging and supporting mental wellbeing is a large part of supporting younger workers to thrive at work. These higher rates are thought to be driven by: increased use of social media and time on screens, reduced connection to community, impacts of Covid-19. When supporting a younger employee you can help by providing: A buddy who can provide pastoral care, Clear communication to ensure they understand what is expected of them, See Mentorship and Coaching to support their learning and growth journey. (Source: Oliver Wyman Forum Global Consumer Sentiment Survey, September 2020–present.) Supporting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace Creating a supportive environment for mental health is crucial in the food and fibre sector. Here are some signs to look out for and actions to consider taking if a team member is struggling with their mental health. Signs to look out for that a team member may be experiencing mental health challenges Lasting changes in physical appearance or energy levels Difficulty concentrating or making decisions Noticable changes in mood, such as increased irritability, sadness or anxiety Withdrawal from social interactions or avoiding team activities Inappropriate behaviour Frequent missing work or reduced productivity Workplace adjustments to support employees struggling with their mental health Encourage open communication Make sure annual leave is taken, encourage employees to use it Offer flexible hours where possible e.g. starting earlier and finishing earlier Regularly review workloads What is physical wellbeing? Physical wellbeing is an important part of overall employee health - it’s also critical to create a productive and positive workplace. Prioritising physical wellbeing helps prevent injuries and illnesses and also enhances overall job satisfaction and productivity. In Aotearoa New Zealand, WorkSafe outlines clear guidelines and regulations to ensure the health and safety of all employees. Compliance with these standards is a legal requirement. See more in the links below, and the Health and Safety section of Your Obligations as an Employer . WorkSafe New Zealand link here Hazard and Risk Management link here However, there are ways to support physical wellbeing above and beyond the minimum standards set out by WorkSafe standards, including: Regular breaks : Encourage employees to take regular breaks to stretch and move around (beyond their mandated two ten minute breaks per eight hour shift). This helps reduce fatigue and the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Variety of tasks in the workday : Encourage employees to have days made up of a range of diverse tasks. This can help break up mental fatigue and make work more interesting and engaging. Health monitoring : Implement regular health monitoring and assessments to detect and address potential health issues early. This could include vision checks, hearing tests, and general health screenings. What is cultural wellbeing? Diversity and inclusion are important in the workplace because they ensure that people of all different backgrounds feel welcome, valued and respected. Aotearoa New Zealand’s population is becoming increasingly diverse, and so is the construction workforce. Cultural wellbeing is an important part of overall employee wellbeing. It involves appreciation and respect for diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds and practices. This includes creating a workplace where individuals can participate in, celebrate, and share one's cultural practices, traditions, and values. Celebrating culture in a work setting involves acknowledging the different backgrounds that employees may come from. It means creating a space where employees don’t feel they need to hide aspects of their identity to fit into a “status-quo” - and feel comfortable chatting to co-workers about their ethnic and cultural backgrounds. When employees feel they can be themselves, it fosters a sense of belonging, enhances employee morale, and improves job satisfaction. Ways to encourage cultural expression include celebrating different cultural holidays or events that your employees celebrate (e.g. Matariki, Chinese New Year, Eid). Part of this involves asking employees what they want to celebrate and how, and then sharing this with other employees. Celebrations may be informal (e.g. with a ‘Happy Diwali’ message in the team chat, chocolate at morning tea to celebrate Easter), or formal (allowing employees to take time off on cultural holidays, i.e. using Christmas public holiday leave on another religious holiday - see more in Your Obligations as an Employer ) . See more advice, particularly related to Māori culture, in Māori Cultural Confidence . What is social wellbeing? Social wellbeing involves feeling connection and purpose. The role of an organisation in facilitating employees' social well-being can vary widely. For some organisations, this might mean fostering strong connections and a sense of community within the workplace, while for others, it might involve encouraging and supporting employees to build social networks and engage in activities outside of work. For others, this may involve flexible work arrangements so that employees can spend time with their kids or families. A focus on supporting employees in social wellbeing is particularly important for isolated or rural businesses, as these can be quite hard to adjust to, and can be lonely. If an employee is new to an area, it is particularly important to give them a hand to become part of the local community. Social activities to foster connection: hosting end of week social gatherings, pub quizzes, end of year functions, barbeques. Clubs / collectives Internal - if you have more than 10 people, consider hosting clubs or collectives for employees to connect over things they have in common. This can be a group mainly for connection, community building and support, or for the purposes of organising activities, and typically are run by employees on a volunteer basis outside of work time. These groups may be centred around common hobbies, cultural backgrounds, working location, etc. Examples of this may be: Tramping club, Māori collective, Kapa Haka, Parents support club. External - encourage (this may include funding) employees to participate in organisations, networks and programmes that support people in Aotearoa New Zealand's construction industries through education, networking, advocacy, and leadership development. Membership in external groups is something all businesses can encourage for their employees - but this is particularly valuable if you are a small business and don’t have the ability to run your own clubs or collectives. The importance of networks to young people Networks and collectives are particularly valuable to younger workers. These networks can help people find social connections, make friends, feel a part of a community and adjust to new stages of life / working. Furthermore, the access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities for collaboration and innovation helps equip young professionals with knowledge, skills, and connections to navigate the construction sector. Click here to find out more on Communication References Te Hiringa Mahara, Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission, 2022. https://www.mhwc.govt.nz/assets/Reports/COVID-19-series/Paper-3/Eng_TechnicalPaper_RuralWellbeing.docx#:~:text=While%20a%20high%20proportion%20of,approximately%2017%25%20greater%20in%20rural

  • Step 1: Preparing | CGF Employer Toolkit

    How do I prepare when hiring a new employee? Being a good employer means understanding and showcasing the benefits and value you offer. Clearly communicating these benefits helps candidates see why they should join and stay with your business, and helps you recognise and improve your offerings. Step 1: Preparing How do I prepare when hiring a new employee? See Below for Information on: Your Offerings Communicating the Job Including Whānau Why should an employee work for me? Being a good employer is more than just ticking the boxes of legal rules . It’s also about understanding and showcasing the benefits and value you offer your employees. When you clearly understand and communicate these benefits, it helps candidates see why they should join and stay with your business. It also allows you to recognise what you offer and how you can improve them to attract and retain the right people. You can understand what you provide your employees by following the guidance in this toolkit. These might include: Workplace Culture (see Workplace Wellbeing and Culture ) Mentoring and Coaching (see Mentorship and Coaching ) Training and Development (see Training and Development ) Pay and Benefits (see Your Obligation as an Employer ) Location and Hours (see Your Obligation as an Employer ). What you provide can be as simple or as detailed as you like, as long as it helps you attract and keep the right people for your business needs. Knowing what makes your workplace special can help you stand out against the competition. It is important to remember to be respectful, open, and honest during the hiring process to create a welcoming environment for candidates. It's important for both you and the candidate to have a clear understanding of what the job involves. Defining the skills, experience, qualifications, and the right 'fit' you're looking for can help you find the ‘right person’. ‘Fit’ is about the candidate's personality and how well they align with your team’s values. It is also helpful to determine what the ‘right person’ for you will look like. They should have a mix of qualities that align with your needs and values. Discovering what this looks like for you can be easily done through writing down 4-5 traits you are looking for. Some examples are included below. Understands the role: they have a clear grasp of what the job involves and what will be expected of them. Aligns to your expectations: their values and work ethic match what you’re looking for in an employee. Willing to learn: they show an eagerness to pick up new skills and adapt to new situations. Resilient: they can handle challenges and setbacks without losing motivation. It's helpful to distinguish between 'must-haves' and 'nice-to-haves.' For instance, requiring a driver's licence might exclude capable candidates who could easily get one with a bit of support. It's essential to be upfront about what the job really entails. While it's tempting to highlight the perks like location, benefits, and lifestyle, it's equally important to share the realities—long hours, early starts, and possible hazards. This honesty is especially crucial for career changers (individuals who change their career often later in life and to seek a new lifestyle). When candidates know exactly what to expect, they can better decide if the role is right for them. This approach leads to a smoother hiring process and decreases the risk that employees leave when reality does not meet their expectations. When candidates know what the job truly involves, they’re less likely to leave after a few months because they feel misled. Providing clarity is simple. Here’s how you can do it: Job Descriptions: Ensure the job descriptions you advertise are clear, simple, and accurate (see the next section for an example). Interview Process: During interviews, reinforce the realities of the role—both the good and the challenging aspects (see further down for more information). Tip! Qualifications aren't always necessary. Sometimes, solid experience is just as valuable. Top Tip: How do I communicate the job well? How do I include whānau? Hiring a new employee isn't just about ticking the legal boxes – it is also about welcoming a whole person into your team. Think about the life experiences they've shared and how these can shape their time at your workplace. Remember, you're not just hiring an individual; they come with their family, friends, and colleagues who support them. This is especially true when employing Māori. Being part of a unit – their whānau, community, and network – can be incredibly important. It plays a big role in their success and, in turn, the success of your workplace. Incorporating these values means including whānau where appropriate during the hiring process, such as during interviews. Embracing this can help create a more supportive and thriving environment for everyone. Click here to find out more on Step 2: Finding

  • Obligations as an Employer | CGF Employer Toolkit

    How do I follow the law and fulfill my obligations as an employer? Understanding employment law and knowing what it expects of you as an employer is key to fostering a healthy relationship between you and your employees. This chapter discusses your minimum legal requirements. Where possible, you should consider going beyond these requirements to attract and retain the best people and support your employees. Your Obligations as an Employer How do I follow the law and fulfill my obligations as an employer? Understanding employment law and knowing what it expects of you as an employer is key to fostering a healthy relationship between you and your employees. This chapter discusses your minimum legal requirements. Where possible, you should consider going beyond these requirements to attract and retain the best people and support your employees. Not complying with employment law may cost you. If you are found in non-compliance you could face financial penalties business as well as paying compensation to employees and lost wages where relevant. Therefore, it is important to get it right now and know when and where to seek extra help. This chapter links often to information on the Government website, Employment NZ. It is noted if a link goes to another provider. The information provided in this chapter is not legal advice. If you are uncertain on any information presented, we recommend you seek advice from a professional. Starting Employment For information on Rights and Responsibilities Good Faith Employment Agreements (Contracts) Types of Workers View More For information on Pay Hour and Breaks Employee expenses Pay & Hours View More Leave & Safety For information on Leave and Holidays Health and Safety View More For information on Policies and Procedures Problems in the Workplace Resolving Problems Ending Employment Ethical Employment Preventing & Addressing Problems View More Find more information and help here If you need help with employee legislation, there are a wide range of professionals who can help you such as lawyers and HR consultants. You can also contact Employment New Zealand here if you have a general query or need help with an employment problem. Some extra resources can be found below to check and further improve your employment knowledge; Employer Relations Helpline - Free 24/7 helpline offering free initial advice to business owners about the Employment Relations Act Employer Self-Assessment Checklist (pdf) - Helps you as an employer measure your compliance with minimum employment standards in the workplace. Employer Self-Assessment Guide (pdf) - A comprehensive guide designed to assist in completing the checklist above. Click here to find out more on Starting Employment

  • Download the Toolkit | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Download your copy of the printable Toolkit, designed for New Zealand's Employers, Managers and Supervisors Printable Toolkit Download your copy of the printable Toolkit Download and print the Toolkit, providing you with unlimited access even when you are offline. Click the Toolkit image to download. Interested in just one chapter? Access below Click on each Chapter Toolkit image to download. Attracting the Right Individuals Toolkit Māori Cultural Confidence Toolkit Workplace Wellbeing & Culture Toolkit Mentorship and Coaching Toolkit

  • Value of Training & Development  | CGF Employer Toolkit

    Why is training and development important? Manage risk in the business, improve productivity, iIncrease morale and motivation, retain good staff. Value of Training and Development Why should I focus on training and development? See Below for Information on: Importance of Training & Development Choosing Opportunities Training & Development Myths Te Ara Poutama Why is training and development important? Manage risk in the business: Meet minimum standards for health and safety, operating equipment, and looking after themselves and others. Improve productivity: Training enhances employees' skills, leading to more efficient and effective work. Well-trained employees make fewer mistakes, saving time, cost, and resources. Increase morale and motivation: Training empowers employees, boosting confidence and morale. Opportunities for growth and development keep employees motivated and engaged. Upskilling can help staff feel like they have something important to offer the team, and can help build a sense of self, identity, and positive wellbeing. Retain good staff: Employees are more likely to stay with a business that invests in their development. Providing growth opportunities can foster loyalty. Training and development can cost businesses a lot if it is done ineffectively. Below are a few principles that can help you decide how to approach training and development for your employees and business. How do I know what training and development is right for my employees? 1. Meet your minimum requirements Core training: Ensure that basic skills required for safe operation are continuously upheld. This is fundamental to any training and development programme. Set Clear Expectations: Clearly outline the basic skills that all employees need to know. For training and development beyond that, make it clear whether you expect employees to proactively seek out training opportunities or if you will provide suggestions / options. 2. Ensure training is relevant Align with Business Goals: Make sure training programs are directly linked to your business needs. Job-Specific Skills: Focus on skills and knowledge that are immediately applicable to employees' roles. (see Attracting the Right Individuals on writing effective job descriptions) 3. Promote continuous learning Ongoing Development: Encourage employees to continuously improve (see a simple process for doing this below ). Also, see how mentors and coaches can support continuous learning in Mentorship and Coaching . 4. Make training accessible Work with employees: Work with employees to understand their motivations, goals, learning styles, schedule, and any barriers to training and development they may have. See more in Workplace Wellbeing and Culture and Māori Cultural Confidence. Remove barriers: Where practical provide support to ensure the best outcome for the employee and your business. 5. Measure and evaluate effectiveness Track Progress: To ensure the training and development you are delivering or supporting is relevant and effective, tracking employee progress will be important. There are a range of ways to do this outlined below. This information can help you adjust and refine to get better results. What are some myths about training and development? Myth 1: Training and development is expensive Lots of training and development is free / low cost - so cost may not always be a barrier. You/your employees may be able to access government or industry financial support (see the page on Financial Support ). Some things are more expensive but worth it. Ensuring the training is relevant to your business will help determine whether it is a worthwhile investment. You can share costs with your employee and/or implement a bonding agreement for the cost of courses to ensure return on your investment. Myth 2: If I train my staff, they will leave (or want more pay) It is often true that when an employee feels they are adding more value to a business they expect to be paid at a higher rate. Working out a development plan, and being transparent with employees about the requirements for different types of roles / skills / knowledge and the value you relate to those will help manage expectations. A simple process for this is outlined here . It can also be true that training and development can advance employees' career pathway expectations and if there is no clear ‘next step’ in their current business they may go elsewhere. Sharing your expectations and the opportunities in your business as transparently as possible with employees will help them understand where you are at. Employees upskilling and leaving can still support your business in the longer-term both through reputation and returning of previous staff. When the majority of employers in the sector take this approach it also increases the skill base of all employees. Myth 3: Training takes staff out of work leaving me understaffed There are a range of options for learning - many of which are work-based and/or flexible and will fit in easily within a week (i.e. part time or outside of work hours training) Training and development is a great thing to focus on when the season is not so busy such as over winter for some industries. Myth 4: There are no training or development courses relevant to my business, so I have to do it myself There has been a lot of change in the government’s approach to industry training and development over the past five years. This has resulted in a lot of change in the types and range of training and learning available. Something more suited to your business may have been recently made available or in the pipeline. Share what training and development you want with your Workforce Development Council - Muka Tangata . It is their job to recommend changes to the system to ensure industry needs are being met. Myth 5: It is impossible for employees with literacy and numeracy difficulties to do training and development Training and development might look different for these employees, however, there are different guidelines and resources available (e.g. from Primary ITO , NZQA , Ako Aotearoa , Literacy Aotearoa , Pathways Awarua ) for working with learners struggling with literacy and numeracy. This includes employees who are alliterate, or may have dyslexia or another form of neurodiversity. What is Te Ara Poutama? Poutama are a stepped pattern seen in toi Māori (Māori arts) such as tukutuku panels or in woven mats. It is a symbol of whakapapa (genealogy) and can represent levels of learning and achievement. This pursuit of higher learning is heard in the pūrākau (story) of Tānenuiarangi, who sought the three baskets of knowledge from the topmost heaven. Each iwi (tribe) has their own version of this story. Some iwi identify this pūrākau with the figure Tāwhaki. The stepped pattern in the poutama is often interpreted as Tāne’s ascendency. This approach to learning is grounded in a Māori worldview as an ongoing and continuous journey of growth and expansion. This is also an example of the importance of educational achievement and the pursuit of knowledge is a shared view among many cultures. Should you wish to learn more about Tāne’s pursuit of the baskets of knowledge, a version of the pūrākau was produced by KIWA Digital which you can find here . Click here to find out more on Actions to Take

  • Audio Files | Construction Employer Toolkit

    Access the CGF employer toolkit in an podcast style format so you can listen on the go. Audio and Video Toolkits The Toolkit has been recorded in a podcast style format so you can listen on the go Audio: Video: For offline listening, download the audio version (hover mouse over each episode) Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied

  • Te ao Māori at Work | CGF Employer Toolkit

    How do I embrace a values-based approach in the workplace? Although Te ao Māori is diverse, it is generally guided by key values. Here are some of these values and how they can be applied in the construction workplace. These include Whanaungatanga (Kinship and relationships), Manaakitanga (Caring and respecting others), and Kaitiakitanga (Stewardship). Te ao Māori at Work How do I incorporate te ao Māori into my workplace culture? See Below for Information on: Values Based Approach Māori Culture & Supporting Your People Helpful Hints How do I embrace a values-based approach in the workplace? Although te ao Māori is diverse, it is generally guided by key values. Here are some of these values and how they can be applied in a construction workplace. These are only a few values that can be applied from a broad and diverse range of values informed by te ao Māori. Whanaungatanga (Kinship and relationships) Whanaungatanga emphasises building strong connections between people to create a sense of belonging. This value can help everyone work together towards common goals while strengthening the community or workplace. Practically, this may look like: Building relationships Getting to know your Māori employees - spend time getting to know them personally. This creates space for Māori staff to share their whakapapa through the use of their pepeha (type of introduction). Show genuine interest in who they are, their whānau (family), and what drew them to this kind of mahi (work). Letting your employees get to know you - create opportunities for your employees to get to know you too. Share who you are, where you’re from, and a bit about your whānau. Engaging with your community - foster connections with the local community by supporting local initiatives and encouraging employees to get involved. Sustaining relationships Scheduling one-on-one meetings - regularly discuss their experiences and goals, showing that you are interested in their growth and wellbeing. Involve your Māori workers in conversations - share opportunities that align with their culture. They may be new to your business, but have insights that could be beneficial to your business objectives. Manaakitanga (Caring and respecting others) Manaakitanga is about fostering a positive and collaborative environment by caring for and respecting each other. This encourages everyone to work together, building a workplace where everyone feels valued. Practically, this may look like: Checking in with your employees: consistently support their mental, physical, cultural and social wellbeing. For more information see Workplace Wellbeing and Culture Acknowledge and celebrate achievements and efforts: show gratitude for hard work, such as a morning tea. Kaitiakitanga (Stewardship) Kaitiakitanga involves creating a balanced relationship with people and nature to live sustainably. This could mean managing and protecting natural resources for future generations. In your workplace, you can practise kaitiakitanga by encouraging sustainable practices and respecting the environment. Practically, this might look like: Implementing waste management practices : minimise waste and promote recycling and composting within the workplace and community Leading efforts to look after native species : actions such as planting riparian and other native bush especially close to waterways, contribute meaningfully to kaitiakitanga Creating opportunities for tikanga: for example, ask your staff if they would like karakia (ritual chants) to take place before cutting down flax or other natural resources Supporting Māori employees to use maramataka (Māori lunar calendar) practices : the traditional Māori lunar calendar can guide planting, harvesting, fishing, and hunting. Matariki, signalling the start of a new year, is another example of maramataka Māori in alignment with the lunar calendar. Understanding these values can help create a supportive and inclusive workplace. When these values are put into practice, they can help Māori employees feel valued and respected. What is Māori culture and how do I support my people? Language There are many ways to incorporate te reo Māori in your workplace. Here are a few tips and helpful resources to support this effort: Pronouncing people's names and place names correctly: Ensure you pronounce people’s names and place names correctly. A guide on te reo Māori pronunciation can be found on reomaori.co.nz. If in doubt, ask the person how to pronounce their name correctly. Incorporating basic words: use words such as kia ora (hello, thank you, be well) in workplace conversations. It is very common to include te reo Māori in daily conversations like “whānau” and “mahi”. Reomaori.co.nz has examples of everyday words you can incorporate into your workplace. Recognising and celebrating te reo Māori: participate in Māori language week, te Wiki o te Reo Māori and the Māori language month, otherwise known as Mahuru Māori to celebrate and promote the use of te reo Māori. More information can be found on reomaori.co.nz. Cultural practices Tikanga Māori are practices that can be incorporated into the workplace. Below are some examples, recognising that some may be more relevant to your work than others. Land based-practices: consider following protocols when engaging with the land, such as seeking permission from local iwi (tribe) before accessing particular sites or harvesting natural resources. Find out which local marae are near you to talk to, using Te Kāhui Māngai (Directory of Iwi and Māori Organisations) through this website - www.tkm.govt.nz . Meeting practices: be open to including karakia at the start and end of meetings to set the intentions for a hui (meeting). This only takes 30 seconds. Discuss with your Māori staff whether this is something they see value in. Welcoming practices: depending on your location, visitors may be welcomed with a mihi whakatau or a pōwhiri (welcoming ceremonies). This is a great opportunity for new employees to get to know their new colleagues and workplace. In workplaces, a mihi whakatau is more common and can include kōrero (speeches), waiata (songs) and karakia. The kawa, tikanga and order of proceedings varies, so please check with the local iwi, hapū (sub-tribe) or marae beforehand on the Te Puni Kōkiri Te Kāhui Māngai website. You can also learn more about pōwhiri on the Te Ara - NZ Encyclopedia website. Mourning practices: Tangihanga, the practice of mourning the passing of a loved one, typically takes priority over all other events in te ao Māori. It recognises the impact of the individual and supports whānau through the mourning process. Tangihanga are similar to funerals, but are typically longer in length. You can learn more about the tangihanga process on the Te Ara - NZ Encyclopedia website. For more information about leave entitlements please see our website or the Employment NZ website. What are some helpful hints? Varied connections to land: Mātāwaka is a term known for Māori who live away from their traditional lands. Mana whenua are those who live on their ancestral lands. Both are examples of the experiences of Māori connection to the land, which may vary. Use of te reo Māori: While the use of te reo Māori is becoming more common across Aotearoa New Zealand, not all Māori employees may feel confidence speaking their language. Expectations: Don’t assume your employees can be cultural advisors without discussing it with them. Appropriate remuneration may be needed if you’re asking staff to take on additional cultural responsibilities. Diversity within Māori Culture: Māori culture is diverse, with many differences from language dialect to practices. Understanding this diversity is crucial as it is a common misconception that the aspirations, needs and ways of doing things are the same across all Māori communities. Governance and co-design: It is important to note that while this information focuses on your support for the needs of your employees, there are opportunities to empower your employees also through enabling decision making and co-design. Click here to find out more on Actions to Take

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