What you get paid while you’re on sick leave
Most people are paid their normal wages when they take sick leave.
COVID-19: Employment NZ has guidance on work-related issues.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the workplace
You only get paid if you’d usually work that day
If it’s not clear, you need to talk to your employer and agree together if it’s a day you’d usually work. The Employment New Zealand website explains what you and your employer must consider.
If you work regular hours
When you take sick leave you’re paid your normal wages — known as relevant daily pay.
If you do not work regular hours
In some situations, you’re paid your average daily pay — there are rules around when this can happen.
Relevant and average daily pay
Public holidays
If you’re sick on a public holiday and it’s a day you were supposed to work:
- you’ll be paid for a normal day’s work
- you will not be paid time and a half
- you will not get a day in lieu (alternative holiday)
- a day of sick leave will not be deducted from your entitlement.
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