Timing restructures & Christmas party H&S

Timing restructures

Planning a structure change before the summer break? While change is often inevitable, consider the timing of the process and whether it could be delayed until after the holiday period. Running a consultation over this time may affect employees' ability to relax, switch off, and enjoy a well-deserved break. A consultation should be meaningful, not rushed. If change cannot wait, communicate clearly, allow realistic time for feedback, and ensure appropriate support is available throughout any closure period. 
 
Before any change processes, please reach out to the HealthyPractice team – we have practical tools, templates and advice to help guide you through the process.  

Health and safety at Christmas functions

Work Christmas parties are often a highlight of the year, but they can also create risks if expectations are unclear. A Christmas function is a work-related event, and communicating expectations early can help reduce the risk of injury, inappropriate behaviour, and situations escalating unnecessarily.

Employers have a duty to do what is reasonably practicable to keep workers safe. This Christmas season:
- assess potential risks
- set expectations for respectful conduct
- manage alcohol responsibly & provide food
- plan safe transport arrangements
- nominate a contact person for any concerns that may arise.

When it comes to business social activities, staff functions, celebrations or after work drinks, take a sensible approach, host responsibly, and have fun!

Practical De-escalation

As part of the 2026 PMAANZ Conference Receptionists’ Day, Senior HealthyPractice Adviser, Bonnie Mitchell, shared a presentation on practical de-escalation techniques to help teams recognise warning signs, respond calmly in challenging situations, set boundaries and know when to seek help.

If you missed the presentation and would like to use these tools with your team, please let us know and we will share the presentation.

Congratulations, Priscilla Lutui

Congratulations to Priscilla Lutui of The Fono Manurewa Healthcare Centre, winner of the 2026 PMAANZ Practice Management of the Year Award. Her transformational leadership, innovative use of data, service redesign and focus on equity show the impact excellent practice management can have.

Bonnie presented the award on behalf of MAS, with a $500 MAS Investment Funds account awarded in recognition of Priscilla's outstanding contribution to practice management.

Question of the month

This month's question:

Q: Can an employer require employees to take annual leave during a Christmas shutdown?

Let us know what you think!

Last month's question:

Q: How long are you legally obliged to store employee payroll records?

A: In New Zealand, wage and time records must be kept for six years, and holiday and leave records must also be kept for six years. However, tax information is required to be retained for seven years.

Got a sticky HR question you'd like answered? We'd love to hear from you.