Document background
The Employment Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is commonly used in New Zealand employment contexts when parties need to establish or modify employment terms in a more flexible format than a formal employment agreement. This document is particularly useful during preliminary employment discussions, when documenting changes to existing employment arrangements, or when establishing temporary or project-based employment relationships. The MOU must comply with New Zealand employment law, including the Employment Relations Act 2000, Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, and other relevant legislation. While less formal than a standard employment agreement, it still needs to address essential employment terms and maintain good faith obligations. The document typically precedes or supplements a formal employment agreement and can be especially valuable during organizational transitions, role modifications, or when establishing flexible working arrangements.
