Archive · 17 Nov 2025
New Zealand: Uber Drivers Now Employees
In New Zealand, a big court case happened.
Uber said their drivers are like small business owners using their app.
But the court said, 'No, they are actually your employees.'
This means drivers might get better rights, like getting paid for holidays or a minimum wage.
A union that helps workers is happy about this and wants to help drivers talk together to get even better working conditions.
New Zealand's Supreme Court ruled Uber drivers are employees, not contractors
The decision upholds a 2022 Employment Court ruling, dismissing Uber's appeal
Two unions brought the case on behalf of four Uber drivers
Drivers may now be entitled to rights like minimum wage and holiday pay
Workers First Union plans to pursue collective bargaining for drivers
- Who
- New Zealand's Supreme Court, two unions, four Uber drivers, and Uber
- What
- The Supreme Court ruled Uber drivers are employees
- When
- Monday, November 17, 2023
- Where
- New Zealand
- Why
- To determine employment status and rights for Uber drivers
Unions and Drivers
Uber
Employment Status
Unions and Drivers
Drivers are employees with rights to minimum wage, holiday pay, and collective bargaining
Uber
Drivers are independent contractors using Uber's platform
- Court
- New Zealand Supreme Court
- Decision Date
- November 17, 2023
- Case Parties
- Four Uber drivers vs. Uber
- Previous Ruling
- Employment Court (2022): Drivers are employees
- Uber's Argument
- Drivers are independent contractors
- Union's Stance
- Drivers are employees entitled to full employment rights