Personal Grievances NZ - Get Help When Work Isn’t Fair

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Are You in the Right Place?

You were dismissed without a clear or fair reason

You were made redundant unfairly or without proper consultation

You were discriminated against or harassed at work

You were treated unfairly or disadvantaged by your employer

You were forced to resign due to how you were treated (constructive dismissal)

If any of the above apply to you, you may be eligible to raise a Personal Grievance against your employer. 

On a valid 90‑day trial, you generally can’t claim unjustified dismissal but can claim discrimination/harassment.

Personal Grievance Definition Graphic

What is a personal grievance in New Zealand?

A personal grievance is a formal legal complaint an employee can raise when their employer has acted unfairly, unreasonably, or unlawfully. 

Under New Zealand employment law, personal grievances exist to protect employees when the balance of power at work has been misused. 

You can raise a personal grievance if your employer’s actions have negatively affected your job, your income, or your dignity at work. 

How Sacked Kiwi helps with personal grievances

We’re employee‑focused employment law specialists who help workers across New Zealand raise personal grievances confidently and correctly. 

Assessing whether you have a valid personal grievance 

Explaining your rights in clear, plain English 

Preparing and submitting your grievance 

Representing you in MBIE mediation 

Taking your case to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) if needed 

Most personal grievance cases qualify for our No Win, No Fee service – meaning you don’t pay unless we achieve a successful outcome. 

We’ll always be upfront with you about costs before proceeding. 

If you’re feeling stressed, uncertain, or overwhelmed
- that’s completely normal

Work issues can affect more than just your job. They can impact your confidence, finances, mental health, and family life. 

We speak with people every day who feel unsure about what to do next. 

Our role is to explain your options clearly, support you with empathy, and advocate for you with confidence. 

Sacked Kiwi NZ's Employment Law Experts left speech mark

Testimonials

Unfair employee dismissal happens all too often and it shouldn't be accepted or tolerated.
We invite you to read the experiences of the people we have helped over the years.

Do I need a personal grievance lawyer or advocate?

While it’s possible to raise a personal grievance on your own, many people choose professional support because: 

  • The process can be stressful and unfamiliar 
  • Employers often have legal representation 
  • Small mistakes can weaken your case 
  • Strong advocacy improves outcomes and settlements 

Working with experienced personal grievance advocates ensures your case is handled properly and strategically.  

Why choose Sacked Kiwi

NZ‑wide employment advocacy, focused on employee rights 

No‑win, no‑fee 

Rapid triage, clear advice, and strong representation at mediation and ERA 

Professional, practical guidance – so you know what happens next 

Getting Started is Simple

Step 1

Contact us for a free, confidential case review

Tell us what happened and share any documents you have. 

Step 2

We assess your situation 

We identify whether your employer’s actions meet the legal threshold for a personal grievance. 

Step 3

Leave the rest to us 

We handle the legal process, communication, and representation – so you don’t have to. 

Step-by-step

Personal grievances commonly involve: 

  • Unfair dismissal: Being terminated without valid reason or fair process. 
  • Unfair redundancy: Lack of genuine business reason, poor consultation, or unfair selection. 
  • Discrimination or harassment: Being treated unfairly due to age, gender, disability, pregnancy, ethnicity, or other protected grounds. 
  • Unjustified disadvantage: Unfair demotion, pay reduction, suspension, or change in duties. 
  • Constructive dismissal: Resigning because your employer’s behaviour left you with no reasonable choice. 

If something felt wrong, confusing, or unfair – trust that instinct. Many valid personal grievance claims start that way. 

In most cases, a personal grievance must be raised within 90 days of the issue occurring – or when you became aware of it. 

Missing this deadline can seriously limit your options, so early advice is critical. 

If you’re unsure when your 90 days started, we can help clarify this quickly. 

If you have them, bring: 

  • Employment agreement 
  • Emails, letters, or messages from your employer 
  • A brief timeline of what happened 
  • Any disciplinary or performance records 

 Don’t worry if you don’t have everything – we’ll help you piece it together. 

 

Sacked Kiwi Bird on the Phone | unfair dismissal

Your Job, Your Rights, Our Fight

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an employment personal grievance?

A formal complaint raised by an employee when their employer has acted unfairly or unlawfully. 

How long do I have to raise a personal grievance?

Usually 90 days from the issue, but some exceptions apply. 

Can I raise a personal grievance after resigning?

 Yes, if your resignation was forced by how you were treated (constructive dismissal). 

What outcomes are possible?

Outcomes may include compensation, lost wages, or reinstatement where appropriate.

Take the next step - we’re here to help

90‑day deadline: Don’t miss your window to raise a personal grievance.  

What happens next: We’ll assess your case, explain options, and act fast on your behalf – often starting with free MBIE mediation. 

Talk to Sacked Kiwi: Call 0508 227 799, or request a Free Case Review via the form above