New parents to receive increased support

The amount paid to parents taking time off from work to care for their new children will increase from 1 July 2026, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced today. 

The maximum weekly paid parental leave rate will increase to $811.05 per week from $788.66, in line with movement in average weekly earnings.  

“Eligible parents can count on this valuable financial support for up to 26 weeks when taking leave from their job to care for their new child,” says Brooke van Velden. 

“The first weeks after the arrival of a new baby are incredibly special, and crucial for parents being able to bond with their child. 

“I also recognise that this time will look different depending on a person’s circumstances, and our paid parental leave scheme accounts for that.   

“While this most often applies to parents with a newborn, it also applies to those who have suffered miscarriage or stillbirth to allow time away for rest and recovery in these difficult situations. Support is also available to those who have adopted or had a child born through surrogacy. 

“As an expectant mother myself, I give my congratulations to every Kiwi awaiting the arrival of their baby and wish them a speedy recovery and special time with their baby in the months ahead.” 

For more information about parental leave including eligibility, payments and returning to work visit the Employment New Zealand website. 

Notes for editor:  

The increase to paid parental leave rates is a legislated annual increase under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987. It applies to employees and self-employed parents. 

Under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, eligible parents are entitled to payments equal to their normal pay up to the current maximum rate. The maximum rate is adjusted annually to account for any increase in average ordinary time weekly earnings. 

The minimum paid parental leave rate for self-employed people will increase to $239.50 per week from $235.00. This reflects the increase to the minimum wage effective from 1 April 2026. ...