No. Child labor under 14 is prohibited in New Zealand under the Employment Relations Act 2000 and Minimum Wage Act 1983, enforced by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Exceptions exist only for family businesses or approved entertainment work, strictly regulated by the Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 and upcoming 2026 amendments tightening compliance.
Key Regulations for Child Labor Under 14 in New Zealand
- Prohibition on Employment: Children under 14 cannot be employed in any commercial or non-family business, per Employment Relations Act 2000 (s 301). Family businesses may employ children only in non-hazardous roles, with parental consent and school attendance verified by MBIE inspectors.
- Entertainment Work Exemptions: The Children, Young Persons, and Their Families Act 1989 (s 38) permits child participation in film, theater, or modeling with a Child Employment Permit from the Ministry of Education. Permits require proof of minimal disruption to education and adherence to the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Amendments to the Education and Training Act 2020 (effective 2026) will mandate digital verification of school attendance for child performers and introduce stricter penalties for non-compliant employers, including fines up to NZ$10,000 under the Employment Relations (Infringement Fees) Regulations 2024.