Best Sexual Harassment Lawyers in New Zealand

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Sacked Kiwi
Hastings, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
22 people in their team
English
Sacked Kiwi is a New Zealand employment law specialist focused on representing employees in workplace disputes. The firm handles disciplinary hearings, personal grievances, unfair dismissals, discrimination and redundancies across New Zealand, guided by a team of seasoned employment law...
Mackenzie Elvin Law
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1980
50 people in their team
Mackenzie Elvin Law is a progressive Tauranga law firm operating across the wider Bay of Plenty.The foundation of Mackenzie Elvin Law is based in a down-to-earth, and family-friendly approach.In the early 80s, Fiona Mackenzie founded the firm with one thing in mind - to work with local families and...
Connect Legal Taranaki
New Plymouth, New Zealand

Founded in 2021
English
Connect Legal Taranaki is a New Zealand law firm based in New Plymouth. The firm was formed in 2021 from the merger of RMY Legal and Billings Lawyers, bringing together decades of regional legal experience to serve individuals and businesses across Taranaki. The practice is recognized for its...
Checketts Mckay Law - Alexandra
Alexandra, New Zealand

30 people in their team
English
Checketts McKay Law Limited is a long established regional law firm serving Central Otago and the Southern Lakes from offices in Alexandra, Cromwell, Wanaka and Ranfurly. The firm traces its origins to historic local practices dating back to the 1880s and combines that heritage with modern...
Foley Douglas
Hamilton, New Zealand

Founded in 2017
26 people in their team
English
Foley Douglas is a Hamilton-based law firm delivering practical and results oriented legal solutions for individuals and organisations across New Zealand. Formed from iCLAW and rebranded in 2025, the firm combines the leadership of Aasha Foley and Sam Douglas with a people-first approach to legal...
Cavell Leitch
Christchurch, New Zealand

Founded in 1923
200 people in their team
Māori
English
Cavell Leitch is a Christchurch based law firm that is here to help our clients, not make it harder. Since the firm was founded in 1923, the firm’s guiding values have remained the same: we provide our clients with clear advice and great service.As we head into our second century in business,...
Bush Forbes Barristers & Solicitors
Tauranga, New Zealand

Founded in 1992
6 people in their team
Māori
English
About usBush Forbes is a well established and successful full service law firm located in Tauranga, New Zealand.We pride ourselves on providing personal, experienced legal advice and professional services for yourself, your property or your business. Bush Forbes started in practice over 30...
Hayman Lawyers
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1997
10 people in their team
Māori
English
Why Hayman Lawyers?Solutions ProviderMore than anything else you want a lawyer who will provide you with solutions. At Hayman Lawyers, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide objective advice on almost any situation. Whether you are trying to restructure your business or market your house, you...

Founded in 1988
20 people in their team
English
GML Lawyers is an Auckland based law firm with a history extending over 40 years, originally founded in 1988 by David Gibbs. The firm provides a broad range of services including family law, employment, real estate and civil litigation, with a track record of handling complex matters for...
JB Morrison
Wellington, New Zealand

Founded in 1924
200 people in their team
Māori
English
AboutJB Morrison is a well-established, full-service New Zealand law firm with offices in Wellington and Rotorua, offering legal expertise in business, property, family law, litigation, Māori land, and employment, serving individuals, businesses (from SMEs to large corporations), and government...
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About Sexual Harassment Law in New Zealand

Sexual harassment in New Zealand is regarded as a serious violation of an individual's rights to a safe and respectful environment, whether at work, school, or in public settings. It is characterized by unwanted sexual advances, comments, gestures, or behavior that makes the recipient feel uncomfortable, intimidated, or discriminated against. The Human Rights Act 1993 and the Employment Relations Act 2000 are the key legislative frameworks providing protection against sexual harassment, emphasizing both the protection of human rights and fair employment practices.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where seeking legal advice or representation may be crucial:

  • If you are experiencing sexual harassment and need guidance on how to report and address it.
  • If you are an employee and feel that your employer is not adequately addressing your harassment complaint.
  • If you face retaliation or discrimination after reporting sexual harassment.
  • If you are an employer who needs to understand your legal responsibilities and how to handle complaints.
  • If negotiations or mediation efforts with the harasser or organization are unsuccessful.
  • If you are considering legal action or a claim with the Human Rights Commission or Employment Relations Authority.

Local Laws Overview

New Zealand has several key legal provisions aimed at combating sexual harassment:

  • The Human Rights Act 1993 prohibits sexual harassment in employment, education, and services sectors.
  • The Employment Relations Act 2000 addresses harassment in the workplace and outlines employer responsibilities to provide a safe work environment.
  • Employers are legally obliged to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and respond effectively to any complaints.
  • Both employees and employers can access support and mediation services through the Human Rights Commission and Employment Relations Authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes sexual harassment in New Zealand?

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome or offensive behavior of a sexual nature, which is either repeated or significant enough to make someone feel offended, humiliated, or intimidated.

Is there a legal time frame to report sexual harassment?

There are no strict deadlines, but it is advisable to report harassment as soon as possible to preserve evidence and enhance the credibility of the complaint.

Can sexual harassment occur outside of employment environments?

Yes, sexual harassment can occur in various settings including schools, universities, public venues, and accommodation services, and is covered under the Human Rights Act.

What steps should I take if I am being sexually harassed at work?

Record incidents, report to a supervisor or HR, and seek legal advice if necessary. It is also helpful to understand your employer's policies on harassment.

Can I file a complaint anonymously?

Complaints may be filed anonymously with some organizations, but it might limit the ability to directly address the issue.

What role does the Human Rights Commission play?

The Human Rights Commission offers guidance, mediation, and support services to individuals experiencing sexual harassment.

What are my employer's responsibilities regarding harassment?

Employers must prevent harassment by implementing policies and responding promptly and effectively to complaints.

Is mediation a necessary step before taking legal action?

Mediation can be a less adversarial and more cost-effective step, but it is not mandatory if the harassment issue warrants legal intervention directly.

Are there penalties for those found guilty of sexual harassment?

Penalties can include compensation to the victim, remedial actions by the employer, and sometimes termination of employment for the harasser.

Can witnesses of harassment also report it?

Yes, witnesses can make reports which can be important for providing evidence and supporting the victim’s case.

Additional Resources

For more information and help, consider reaching out to:

  • The Human Rights Commission for advice and mediation services.
  • The Employment Relations Authority for workplace disputes.
  • Local legal aid and community law centers offering free legal advice.
  • WorkSafe New Zealand for workplace safety and health guidance.
  • Non-profit organizations like HELP Auckland providing support to victims of harassment.

Next Steps

If you are seeking legal assistance in a sexual harassment case, consider these steps:

  • Document all instances of harassment including dates, times, and any witnesses.
  • Review your organization's policies regarding harassment and grievance procedures.
  • Contact the Human Rights Commission or Employment Relations Authority for advice on mediation or formal complaints.
  • Seek a consultation with a lawyer experienced in employment or human rights law to discuss your situation and explore potential legal actions.
  • Stay informed about your rights and available support systems to make empowered decisions.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in New Zealand through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sexual Harassment, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.