What We Do
New Zealand Ethical Employers is founded on the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). NZEE is a voluntary member-based organisation. We guide companies to operate ethically,
In fulfilment of this mission, we require our members to work sustainably and to conduct themselves with the utmost fairness, honesty, and responsibility in all aspects of their business.
NZEE adds value with leadership and high standards across the membership.
Member Testimonial - Shelley Leach, Business Manager, Rawhiti hort
I recommend NZEE to people already, but with the newly launched Dashboard available I would HIGHLY recommend that any employer considering trying to attain RSE status becomes an NZEE member as the volume and quality of the resources you are providing is fantastic and would make the journey to becoming an RSE employer so much easier and less stressful. In our own efforts to gain RSE status, and then work through the ATR process, recruitment of workers and getting them settled into NZ, there were so many unknowns. We really didn’t know what we didn’t know, and were just crossing our fingers that we had everything covered. NZEE were supportive throughout the process, and now with the resources provided via the dashboard, there is much more clarity around what being an RSE employer really involves, and the connections and resources to support that.
Outside of the RSE space; with the resources, support, and networking opportunities that NZEE offers, there is still so much value in the NZEE membership for any employer who wants to do right by their people and be on the front foot when it comes to ethical and sustainable practices throughout their organisation and supply chain.
We define good practice in ethical employment for the Primary Industries
NZEE provides education, support, and systems that create a framework to support businesses to demonstrate that they are operating ethically and commit to continual improvement. All members commit to adopt Human Rights Policy & Workplace Standards. Where they find that they cause or contribute to human rights harms, they commit to remove or mitigate the risk from occurring again.
We help workers to help themselves
Workers must be able to raise any concerns about their employment terms and conditions without fear of penalty or other retaliation by their employer.
NZEE identifies world leading, fit-for-purpose tools to check the effectiveness of their efforts, and to give their workers a voice to raise concerns, the anonymity of the Ethical Voice Worker Survey allows safety for the worker, and trust for the employer.
We build partnerships that make a difference
The private sector can have a transformational impact on people’s lives, both as a creator of jobs and a producer of goods and services that people use. NZEE partners with companies who set the tone from the top, have a shared vision and commitment to respect human rights and labour rights in their operations.
Iwi, governments, trade unions, consumers and media also have a distinct and vital role. We raise awareness of how everyone has a role to play in protecting workers' rights and work closely with governments to influence policy and legislation. It’s NZEE’s objective to be acknowledged and sought by government, industry, the media, and the public as the experts in primary sector labour supply.
We drive ethical business practices in NZ
NZEE provides members with up-to-date and relevant information, empowering them to make sound and informed business decisions on ethical and responsible business conduct, as defined in the UNGP’s that encourage market acceptance of the products of the Aotearoa New Zealand primary sector.
We support opportunities for our communities to grow
NZ Ministry of Education research has shown job search assistance and work experience or on the job training are the most effective active labour market programmes.
NZEE adds value with effectively planning and communication of workforce requirements. Creating a practical framework for upskilling the workforce to meet the current & future needs of our members, identifying meaningful training opportunities, career pathways, and mentoring for their workers.
Addressing Human Rights Challenges in the Agricultural Supply Chain
New Zealand has a great opportunity to lead the charge in promoting ethical employment practices and responsible supply chain management. Members of NZEE are demonstrating proactive responsibility, not solely due to legal obligation, but because they are engaged and motivated and strive for continuous improvement.
We shouldn’t underestimate the potential for employers to create meaningful change through gradual, incremental changes over time. Small shifts in business policies, practices, and workplace culture, when consistently applied and supported by leadership, can lead to significant improvements in working conditions and employee wellbeing.
Read NZ's Great Opportunity Report - Tanya Pouwhare
Fostering a culture of excellence in employment
Fostering a culture of excellence in employment involves creating an environment where high standards are consistently upheld, and employees are valued, empowered, and motivated to achieve their best.
This culture is built on the foundation of fairness, inclusivity, and continuous improvement, ensuring that workers not only meet performance expectations but also feel respected and supported in their roles. It emphasises the importance of clear communication, professional development opportunities, and recognition of achievements, which together cultivate a sense of pride and ownership among staff. By fostering excellence, businesses can enhance employee satisfaction, reduce turnover, and ultimately drive greater productivity and innovation.