Part 1 - ERAA 2026: The $200k Dismissal Threshold & Trial Period Change

It has been four months since the Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026 became official. So we put the call out to our Law Lenz listeners. Ask our host Sanam anything. And you did. This episode kicks off a three-part series on the legislation. What it changed, what cases we have seen so far, and the questions you sent through over the last couple of months. In Part 1, Sanam digs into the $200,000 dismissal threshold and the quieter 90 day trial period change that slipped past most people. In this episode we cover: What the threshold actually removes, and what it leaves untouched How annual remuneration is calculated, and why base salary isn't the full story The 12 month transition period, and why the clock is already running Why senior employees can still bring claims, just through a different door The 90 day trial period tightening, and the back door it now closes Listener questions on redundancy, opt-outs, and where the threshold sits for existing staff Mentioned in this episode: The Employment Relations Amendment Act 2026, which sets out the high-income threshold provisions and the trial PG changes Duncan Cotterill's article, Discrimination claims at work: why they may be the new battleground Our previous episode on trial periods: Trial Periods Refresher: How to Avoid Costly Mistakes Check out the Law Lenz website lawlenz.co.nz Want to book a workshop? Send your inquiry through HERE Don't miss our updates and legal insights! Sign up to the Law Lenz Newsletter! CLICK HERE! Follow Sanam on LinkedIn for key employment law updates. Got questions? Email them to [email protected] Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.