NZ Annual Leave Entitlement

Find out exactly when you become legally entitled to your 4 weeks of paid annual leave.

lightbulb Compliance with NZ Holidays Act 2003
Casual workers typically receive 8% holiday pay "pay-as-you-go" instead of 4 weeks leave.

Your Entitlement

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Note: You only become formally entitled to 4 weeks paid leave upon reaching 12 continuous months of employment. Before then, you are accumulating it, but the employer does not legally have to let you take it unless agreed.

⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This tool provides an estimate only and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice.

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While we strive to align with the standard provisions of the NZ Holidays Act 2003 (and other relevant legislation), this calculator cannot account for every unique employment agreement, complex leave history, or precise IRD tax logic (including exact KiwiSaver and Student Loan thresholds).

We accept no liability or responsibility for any loss, damage, or discrepancy arising from the use of or reliance on this calculator. Always verify your calculations with your payroll department, Employment New Zealand, or a qualified professional.

External Resources

Make the most of your transition with these popular New Zealand resources.

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Annual Holidays Guide →

Official rules on the 4-week entitlement and how leave is accrued in New Zealand.
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Public Holiday Rights →

Learn about your entitlements for public holidays and alternative holidays (days in lieu).
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Calculating Holiday Pay →

Technical guidance on using Ordinary Weekly Pay vs Average Weekly Earnings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about annual leave and holiday entitlements in NZ.

How much annual leave am I entitled to?

After 12 months of continuous employment, most employees are entitled to at least 4 weeks of paid annual holidays per year under the Holidays Act 2003.

Can I cash up my annual leave?

Yes, you can request to cash up to one week of your 4 weeks' annual holiday entitlement per year. This must be a written request, and your employer can decline the request.

What if I'm a casual employee?

Casual employees (or those on fixed-term contracts under 12 months) can be paid an extra 8% of their gross earnings "as they go" instead of accruing leave, provided this is clearly stated in their employment agreement.

What happens if a public holiday falls during my leave?

If a public holiday falls on a day you would otherwise work during your annual leave, the day is paid as a public holiday and doesn't count as a day of annual leave. This effectively extends your holiday without using more leave days.