The Work-Life Balance Dilemma in New Zealand

In recent years, the topic of work-life balance has gained significant attention, especially in countries like New Zealand, where the traditional 9-to-5 workday is increasingly being replaced by more flexible and adaptive working arrangements.

According to recent census data, there has been a slight decrease in the average number of hours worked per week, dropping from 38.1 hours in 2013 to 37.2 hours in the most recent figures. While this might not seem like a drastic change, it highlights an evolving trend in how Kiwis approach work. The rise of the gig economy, part-time roles, and increased demand for flexible work schedules has contributed to this shift.

However, despite these changes, over 10% of workers report working more than 50 hours per week. This statistic raises questions about the effectiveness of these flexible work arrangements. New Zealand has long been held up as an exemplar of good work-life balance, but the reality is far more complex. For instance, 300 workers reported working "24/7," indicating a persistent struggle with the boundaries between work and personal life. These numbers suggest that while some workers are benefitting from greater flexibility, others are finding it harder to switch off and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

“New Zealand has often been seen as a leader in this area, but for many workers, the reality doesn't always match the ideal."

As Frog Recruitment's Managing Director Shannon Barlow recently discussed in a recent NZ Market Update livestream, this growing tension between flexibility and overwork is something employers must pay attention to.

One of the key themes explored was the impact of overwork on both individuals and organisations. Barlow highlighted the importance of addressing work-life balance, noting that, “New Zealand has often been seen as a leader in this area, but for many workers, the reality doesn't always match the ideal. It's about finding a balance that works for both the business and the individual.”

She pointed out the shift in expectations from employees who are now prioritising personal well-being and seeking roles that offer greater flexibility. Barlow acknowledged that this is a positive development but also a double-edged sword, as the boundaries between work and personal life are blurring for many employees. “We're seeing that with more remote work, there’s a tendency for people to feel like they’re ‘always on,’ which is why conversations around the right to disconnect are becoming more relevant,” she said.

The NZ Market Update also touched on recent census results, which show a decrease in average hours worked per week, but with a notable percentage of the workforce still clocking over 50 hours weekly​. This discrepancy highlights a growing divide in the workforce, where some are able to take advantage of flexible working conditions, while others are struggling to cope with increased workloads.

One of the most pressing concerns raised was the impact of long working hours on mental health. As Barlow noted, “For those putting in over 50 hours a week, burnout is a real risk. Employers need to be aware of this and actively work to mitigate it.” The discussion made it clear that while New Zealand has taken steps to improve work-life balance, there is still much work to be done, particularly in supporting employees who feel overburdened.

The concept of the "right to disconnect" was a central point in the discussion. This refers to the ability of workers to switch off from work outside of their regular hours without facing repercussions. It’s a right that has gained traction globally, especially in countries like France, where legislation supports it. In New Zealand, the conversation is just beginning, but it is gaining momentum as workers push for more definitive boundaries between work and personal time.

Tips for Achieving a Healthy Work-Life Balance

To achieve a better work-life balance, employers and employees can adopt several practical strategies. Employers should focus on fostering a supportive and flexible work environment that acknowledges the diverse needs of their workforce. Offering flexible work hours, promoting the right to disconnect, and encouraging employees to take regular breaks can help maintain productivity while safeguarding mental health.

For employees, it’s important to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. This might include having set working hours, communicating these boundaries to colleagues, and making time for relaxation and personal pursuits outside of work. Prioritising mental well-being and seeking roles that align with personal values and life goals can also contribute to a more balanced lifestyle.

Employers can also offer wellness programs and resources aimed at helping employees manage stress, anxiety, and burnout. Regular check-ins between managers and employees to discuss workload and personal well-being can foster an environment where employees feel supported in maintaining a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.

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In business since 2002 in New Zealand, Frog Recruitment is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. Located across Auckland and Wellington, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 RCSA Excellence in Candidate Care Award, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.