MEDIATION – FAIR, PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS FOR WORKPLACE CONFLICT

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At Employment Equity Ltd, we understand that workplace and employment disputes can be stressful, unproductive, and emotionally draining. They can also be costly, both in time and money, for employers and employees alike.

Mediation offers an alternative. It provides a confidential, solution-focused process designed to help everyone involved reach a fair agreement without the need for lengthy legal proceedings.

It is a space to be heard, to rebuild understanding, and to find a practical resolution that helps people move forward.

What is Employment Mediation?

Employment mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where an independent mediator helps both sides explore issues and agree on a workable outcome.

It is commonly used to resolve:

  • Personal grievances such as unjustified dismissal or redundancy.
  • Harassment or bullying complaints.
  • Disputes about wages, leave, or entitlements.
  • Contractor versus employee classification issues.
  • Performance or disciplinary disagreements.
  • Any other workplace or employment-related matters.

In New Zealand, mediation is recognised under the Employment Relations Act 2000 and is often the first step before escalation to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).

Mediation is about resolution, not blame. It allows people to communicate openly and safely while focusing on practical outcomes and restoring trust where possible.

Why Choose Employment Equity Mediation Services?

With years of experience in New Zealand’s employment law space, Employment Equity Ltd understands the realities of workplace conflict. Our focus is on fairness, clarity, and practical solutions that benefit all parties.

Our Director, Michael Harrison, personally leads all mediations. He is an Associate Member of the Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of New Zealand (AAMINZ), New Zealand’s largest dispute resolution organisation, and serves as a Board Member of the Employment Law Institute of New Zealand (ELINZ).

Michael holds qualifications including B Soc Sci, CPIR, B Bus Admin (Hons), MBA, and AAMINZ. His training and professional background provide both academic and practical expertise in dispute resolution.

Clients benefit from his extensive experience in employment relations, negotiation, human resources, and conflict management. Having represented clients in both MBIE mediations and the Employment Relations Authority (ERA), he brings a grounded understanding of both the legal and human sides of conflict.

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How the Mediation Process Works

The mediation process follows several clear steps

  • Preparation – Each party outlines their concerns. Michael helps everyone understand the process and set realistic expectations.
  • Joint Meeting – Both sides meet in person or online in a neutral setting.
  • Discussion – The mediator facilitates an open conversation, helping uncover misunderstandings and explore possible solutions.
  • Agreement – When a solution is found, it is written up and signed by both parties.

Everything discussed remains private. Confidentiality allows open and honest communication without fear of repercussion.

As a professional member of AAMINZ and ELINZ, Michael adheres to strict ethical and confidentiality standards. Every mediation is conducted with impartiality and professionalism.

The Benefits of Mediation

Mediation offers many advantages compared to formal legal proceedings

  • It is private and confidential.
  • It is faster, often concluding in one day.
  • It is cost-effective compared to litigation.
  • It helps preserve or repair working relationships.
  • It allows flexible, creative outcomes tailored to each situation.

Michael has facilitated hundreds of mediations where conflict gave way to clarity.
In one case, two senior staff members who had stopped communicating were able to rebuild their working relationship within hours. Both remained with the organisation, and productivity quickly returned.

That kind of turnaround is why mediation remains one of the most effective ways to resolve workplace issues.

Meet Michael Harrison – Mediator, Facilitator, Negotiator, Advocate

Michael Harrison is the Director of Employment Equity Ltd, trading as 0800DISMISSED, a trusted employment advocacy and mediation firm established in 2011.

With a rich background in employment relations and human resources, Michael is dedicated to guiding individuals and organisations through workplace conflict and change.

He provides a wide range of services, including:-

  • Independent mediation and dispute resolution.
  • Negotiation and advocacy in employment matters.
  • Investigation and workplace reviews.
  • Change management and organisational development.
  • Policy and procedure formulation.
  • Conflict resolution training and education.

Michael has also lectured at AUT University, teaching Organisational Change Management, Negotiation, and Principles of Conflict Resolution at both MBA and undergraduate levels.

He is an active contributor to New Zealand’s mediation and employment law community, serving as a Board Member of ELINZ and maintaining professional links through AAMINZ.

Mike’s Professions

– Mediator
– Facilitator
– Negotiator
– Advocate
– Conflict Coach
– Consultant
– Investigator
– Manager and HR Partner

Mike’s Speciality Areas

– Employment
– Commercial
– Business
– Management
– Employment and Labour Relations
– Workplace Facilitation

Work Regions

Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki, Manawatu Whanganui, Wellington, Tasman, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast, Canterbury, Otago, Southland, and international clients.

What Makes Employment Equity Different?

Employment Equity’s mediation service is not just about resolving disputes. It is about helping people find closure and understanding.

We support both employees and employers, offering a balanced perspective that focuses on fairness and sustainable outcomes.

Clients choose  our Employment Equity mediation service because:-

  • We combine advocacy and mediation experience.
  • We are neutral, professional, and outcome-driven.
  • We have proven results through MBIE and ERA processes.
  • We offer clear, honest communication and guidance.
  • We provide nationwide service in person or online.

Michael’s calm, respectful approach ensures every voice is heard and every issue is managed with integrity.

Preparing for Mediation – What You Need to Know?

Preparation helps you get the best from your mediation.

Before your session

  • Identify your key issues and desired outcomes.
  • Collect relevant documents or emails.
  • Be open to listening and exploring options.
  • Consider what a fair resolution would look like for you.

During mediation, Michael encourages participants to stay open-minded. After mediation, his team can assist with documenting agreements or providing follow-up support to ensure commitments are implemented properly.

Common Questions About Mediation

What does mediation cost?
MBIE provides free mediation for employment disputes. Private mediation is charged at an agreed rate and remains much more affordable than legal proceedings.

How long does it take?
Most mediations take between two and four hours and are often completed in a single day.

Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Mediation is entirely private and protected by law.

What happens if no agreement is reached?
You can continue discussions later or take the matter to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA).

Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You can have a support person, representative, or lawyer with you.

Is mediation legally binding?
If both parties sign a written agreement, it becomes a binding settlement enforceable by the ERA.

READY TO TALK

If you are facing a workplace dispute, mediation can help you find a practical and private solution.

Contact Michael Harrison at Employment Equity Ltd (0800DISMISSED) for professional, fair, and confidential mediation.

Contact details
info@employmentequity.co.nz
0800 DISMISSED
Working Nationwide: Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, Canterbury, Otago, Southland, and beyond.

Kind Regards
Mike Harrison
B Soc Sci, CPIR, B Bus Admin (Hons), MBA, AAMINZ
Director, Employment Equity Ltd
Licensed Private Investigator

Mike Harrison has been awarded Associate Membership of the Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand. He is also a board member of our professional association ELINZ. This can also be added to the site.

Michael Harrison, AAMINZ

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A member of The Employment Law Institute of New Zealand. ELINZ Represents Employment Law Professionals Nationwide.