Source: Auckland Council
Like a number of organisations across New Zealand, Auckland Transport misinterpreted the complex Holidays Act 2003 legislation.
This resulted in payment errors for some of its current and former employees across several types of pay (annual leave, alternate days, bereavement leave, sick leave, domestic violence leave and public holidays).
Putting things right
In 2018, a review of Auckland Transport’s payroll system was undertaken to identify where underpayments had occurred (for current and former employees) dating back to AT’s inception in November 2010. This was a large and complex task, overseen by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), with legal advice taken to ensure AT met its obligations under the Act.
AT has now completed the work necessary to recalculate these leave payments and has upgraded its payroll system and associated processes to ensure compliance with the Act. Current employees will receive any monies owed in early July, but AT would also like to contact all past employees who have been impacted.
Back-payments to former employees
Those who worked variable hours such as shift or on-call work, and those on legacy contracts are more likely to be affected by the Holidays Act 2003 miscalculations than those who worked a fixed schedule.
Former employees are being contacted by email, SMS and letter during July-August. If owed arrears, they will be invited to submit a claim on the Auckland Transport remediation website They can also visit this website independently to complete the registration process and confirm whether or not they are owed a back-payment. Back-payments to former employees are expected to commence end of July.
If you think you may be affected, but do not hear from us, please visit Auckland Transport remediation website.
