Recent changes to New Zealand’s Equal Pay legislation have sent a strong signal: relying on government action alone is no longer enough to close the gender pay gap.

Employers must lead the way.

Change starts within organisations, driven by business leaders ready to take responsibility. This is your opportunity to ask: Are you ready to stand up and say “Fair Pay” with pride?

Fair pay isn’t just about compliance. It’s a strategic advantage that strengthens workplace culture, helps attract and retain top talent, and builds lasting trust with your team.

Leading by Example: What Does Fair Pay Look Like?

1. Conduct proactive pay audits

Don’t wait until legislation forces your hand. Regularly review pay structures, identify disparities, and make adjustments. Be transparent about what you find—this builds credibility.

2. Start conversations about pay

Creating a culture of pay transparency helps normalise the discussion. Use initiatives like the government’s Mind the Gap to guide your efforts. Their pay gap registry features organisations committed to reporting and improving pay equity.

3. Promote your values

Showcase your “No Gender Pay Gap” stance in your employer branding. Consider joining the Mind the Gap Registry as a public declaration of your commitment to fair pay and equity.

4. Support others and lead industry change

Lead industry-wide change. Celebrate businesses taking action, share your own journey, and collaborate to create systemic change. A collective approach drives faster progress.

While recent legislative changes may have limited some legal pathways to achieving pay equity, they also serve as a catalyst for a different approach: courageous, values-led leadership. 

Organisations that prioritise fairness and transparency are not only doing the right thing — they’re also positioning themselves for long-term success. 

Fair Pay Leads to Business Success

When women and other underrepresented groups feel valued and paid fairly, they’re more engaged, more loyal, and more likely to thrive in your organisation. This improves retention, boosts innovation, and builds a stronger, more sustainable business.

This isn’t merely about compliance — it’s about cultivating a culture of fairness that becomes embedded in your organisation’s identity. It’s your legacy in the making. 

Will Your Business Say “Fair Pay Starts Here”?

Now is the time to take action. Be a leader in fair pay—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s good business.

Whether you’re starting or scaling your commitment, EASI NZ is here to help.

Learn more at mindthegap.nz/just-ask or get in touch to embed fair pay in your organisation’s culture.