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Employment

How to Write a Resignation Letter in New Zealand

A resignation letter in New Zealand is a formal notice to your employer. This guide explains the legal notice period, what to include, and provides short email and letter examples for a professional exit.

4 min read

A flat lay composition showing a resignation letter, a pen, and a calendar, symbolising the process of resigning from a job in New Zealand.

You must provide a formal resignation letter in New Zealand to end your employment. The legal notice period is typically two weeks, but your contract may require more. A clear, professional letter protects your rights and ensures a smooth exit.

The minimum notice period under the Employment Relations Act 2000 is what is 'reasonable'. For most employees, this is interpreted as at least two weeks. You must always check your Individual Employment Agreement first, as it may specify a longer period, such as four weeks.

If you don't give enough notice, your employer could withhold pay for the notice period you failed to work. They may also take legal action for breach of contract.

How to write a professional resignation letter

Keep your letter positive and concise. Follow this step-by-step structure.

Essential elements of your letter

Every resignation letter should include three key parts.

  1. Statement of resignation: Clearly state you are resigning.
  2. Last working date: Specify your final day, ensuring it meets your notice period.
  3. A thank you: Express gratitude for the opportunity.

Including a reason for leaving is optional. If you choose to, keep it brief and neutral. The tone should match your workplace culture, but it's safest to be formal.

Short resignation letter and email examples

Use these templates as a starting point for your own notice.

Simple two-week notice letter example

This formal letter covers the essentials.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]

[Manager's Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]

Dear [Manager's Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of employment will be [Date, exactly two weeks from today].

Thank you for the opportunity to work here. I have enjoyed my time at the company and wish you and the team all the best for the future.

I am happy to assist with the handover of my duties during my notice period.

Yours sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]

Short resignation email template

For a less formal workplace, an email is acceptable.

Subject: Resignation - [Your Name]

Dear [Manager's Name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title]. My last day will be [Date].

Thank you for the support during my time here. Please let me know how I can help with the transition.

Kind regards,
[Your Name]

Adapt these templates by changing the last working date if your notice period is longer. Avoid negativity, personal complaints, or excessive detail in a short note.

Submitting your resignation letter: steps to follow

Follow this process to ensure your resignation is properly recorded.

  1. Address it correctly: Send the letter to your direct manager and copy the HR department.
  2. Submit in person: If possible, hand a printed copy to your manager and discuss it briefly.
  3. Follow up with email: Immediately after the meeting, send a digital copy (like the email template above) to create a dated record.
  4. Keep a copy: File a copy of your resignation letter and any acknowledgement.
  5. Prepare for discussion: Be ready for a potential exit interview to provide constructive feedback.

What to do after you submit your resignation

Your responsibilities continue until your final day. Focus on a smooth handover of your duties to colleagues.

You are entitled to your final pay, which includes any outstanding salary and accrued holiday pay (annual leave). Your employer must also make the final contribution to your KiwiSaver. You can use the New Zealand PAYE Calculator to estimate your final take-home pay.

Return all company property, such as laptops, access cards, and keys, before or on your last day.

Special cases: resigning as a director or with a complex agreement

Some situations require extra care. If you are resigning as a company director, you should use a formal Director Resignation Letter. This addresses governance and legal responsibilities, not just employment.

If you are on a probationary period or a fixed-term contract, check your agreement for specific resignation clauses. Some fixed-term contracts may have early exit penalties.

For any complex agreement with unique clauses, review the terms carefully before resigning to understand your obligations.

Your next step

To ensure your resignation is handled correctly, use a professionally drafted template. Download a Letter of Resignation tailored to New Zealand law to create your notice quickly and confidently.

Frequently asked questions

Is two weeks' notice required by law in New Zealand?

The law requires 'reasonable' notice. For most employees, two weeks is considered the reasonable minimum. However, your employment contract can legally require a longer notice period, so you must check your Individual Employment Agreement first.

Can I resign by email, or do I need a formal letter?

Yes, you can resign by email. An email provides a clear, dated record and is acceptable in most workplaces. For very formal roles or if specified in your contract, a signed letter may be preferred, but an email is legally sufficient as written notice.

What should I do if my employer asks me to leave immediately?

If your employer asks you to leave immediately after you resign, they are effectively terminating your employment. You are entitled to be paid for your full notice period unless your contract has a 'payment in lieu of notice' clause. Seek advice if this happens.

Do I have to state why I am resigning in the letter?

No, you are not legally required to state a reason for resigning. It is optional. It is often best to keep the letter positive and concise without going into detail, especially if the reason for leaving is negative or personal.

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