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Leave entitlements for Regular Force

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) offers a range of leave options to support the wellbeing of its Regular Force members. These leave options provide opportunities to rest, recover, and manage personal or family responsibilities, ensuring a healthy work-life balance.

Leave is available to Regular Force members to ensure they have time to rest and recover, as well as to address personal needs like illness or family emergencies.

Types of Leave for Regular Force Members:

  1. Annual Leave: Members earn 25 days of annual leave per year from their first day of paid service. Part-time or short-term members accrue leave on a pro-rata basis.
  2. Public Holidays: Members are entitled to 12 public holidays each year. If a member works on a public holiday, they are entitled to an equivalent day of leave.
  3. Leave Without Pay (LWOP): If a member has used their annual leave entitlement, they may be granted leave without pay at the discretion of the NZDF.
  4. Sick Leave: Sick leave is granted when a member is unable to work due to illness or injury and is paid in full, including allowances. There is no fixed number of sick leave days, but extended absences may lead to a medical review to assess fitness for service.
  5. Compassionate Leave: Compassionate leave can be requested for urgent or unexpected domestic situations requiring immediate attention.
  6. Bereavement Leave: Members may take bereavement leave following the death of a family member or someone with whom they had a close relationship.This range of leave options ensures that members of the Regular Force have the flexibility to take time off when they need it most.