The Evolution of Employee Well-Being in 2025: What New Zealand Businesses Need to Know
Employee well-being has become a cornerstone of successful workplaces in New Zealand, and 2025 is no exception.
A recent survey by Southern Cross Health Society revealed that 40% of Kiwi workers feel their mental health has been impacted by workplace stress, underscoring the need for businesses to prioritise well-being initiatives.
With evolving employee expectations, hybrid work models, and growing awareness of mental health, businesses must prioritise well-being to attract and retain talent. In fact, research shows that employees who feel supported in their well-being are 89% more likely to recommend their workplace.
For Kiwi businesses, this shift isn’t just about staying competitive—it’s about building thriving teams and workplaces.
1. The Rise of Personalised Well-Being Programmes
Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all wellness initiatives. Employees now expect programmes that reflect their unique needs and circumstances, such as flexible options for parents, culturally inclusive practices, or targeted mental health support. For example, a recent New Zealand study showed that employees are 45% more likely to engage with wellness initiatives tailored to their specific roles and lifestyles, highlighting the need for a more customised approach. In 2025, New Zealand businesses are focusing on tailored programmes that address individual needs. Whether it’s providing flexible working hours for parents, offering financial literacy workshops, or supporting cultural practices like Matariki leave, personalised well-being is becoming the norm.
Tip: Start with a staff survey to understand what matters most to your team. Use the insights to design initiatives that resonate, such as wellness days, gym memberships, or mindfulness sessions.
2. The Hybrid Work Conundrum
Hybrid work remains a popular model, but it’s not without challenges. In New Zealand, issues such as maintaining productivity in remote rural areas with limited internet connectivity and ensuring team cohesion across hybrid setups are particularly pressing. While flexibility has improved work-life balance for many, it’s also created new pressures, such as feelings of isolation and blurred boundaries between work and home. New Zealand businesses are learning to adapt by balancing flexibility with intentional culture-building.
Tip: Foster connection by organising regular in-person team days, virtual coffee catch-ups, or shared projects. Clear communication around expectations for remote and in-office work can also help manage stress.
3. Mental Health as a Business Priority
Mental health awareness in Aotearoa has grown significantly, driven by initiatives like Mental Health Awareness Week and the Government’s Wellbeing Budget. Workplaces are stepping up by integrating these frameworks into their policies and fostering a culture of support. In 2025, businesses are not only providing Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) but are actively fostering psychologically safe environments where employees feel supported to speak up and seek help.
Tip: Train leaders to recognise signs of burnout or stress and provide them with tools to respond effectively. Simple practices, like offering mental health days or setting realistic deadlines, can go a long way in reducing workplace stress.
4. Well-Being Metrics: What Gets Measured, Gets Improved
Measuring employee well-being is becoming increasingly important. Tools such as Culture Amp and Officevibe are popular among Kiwi businesses, providing real-time insights into employee engagement and satisfaction, while local options like AskYourTeam cater specifically to New Zealand workplaces. From engagement surveys to pulse checks, Kiwi businesses are using data to inform their well-being strategies and make meaningful improvements.
Tip: Use tools like anonymous surveys or regular one-on-ones to gather feedback. Look for trends in employee engagement, absenteeism, or productivity to identify areas for improvement. (we can help with these surveys)
5. Practical Steps for New Zealand Businesses
To make well-being a core part of your workplace, consider these actionable steps:
Embrace flexibility: Whether it’s hybrid work or alternative hours, allow employees to work in ways that suit their lives.
Invest in leadership development: Equip managers with the skills to support their teams effectively.
Celebrate culture: Recognise and honour diverse backgrounds through cultural events and inclusive policies.
Encourage open conversations: Create a workplace where employees feel safe to discuss their challenges.
In 2025, prioritising employee well-being isn’t just a trend—it’s a business imperative. By focusing on personalised support, mental health, and meaningful connection, New Zealand workplaces can create environments where employees not only succeed but thrive. Let’s make well-being the foundation of workplace success this year.
At People Passion, we’re committed to helping Kiwi businesses build welcoming and thriving workplaces.
Need help enhancing your well-being strategy? Contact us today to learn more.