New Zealand families will receive a boost to paid parental leave from 1 July, with the maximum weekly payment rising from $754.87 to $788.66.

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden said the change is intended to give families more support during the critical early weeks of a child’s life.

“It is important to me that families receive the support they need to give their child the best start in life, and having those first weeks together is critical,” van Velden said.

The minimum rate for self-employed parents will also increase, rising from $231.50 to $235 per week. This reflects the adjustment to the adult minimum wage that came into effect on 1 April.

Eligible parents can receive payments for up to 26 weeks. The parental leave scheme also applies to adoptive parents, those using surrogates, and those who have experienced miscarriage or stillbirth.

“Congratulations to all the new parents starting an exciting chapter of their lives. This will look different for different families, so whether you have just given birth, adopted, or had a child born through surrogacy, the scheme is there to support you and your family,” van Velden said.

She also acknowledged the emotional and physical challenges for women involved in surrogacy, miscarriage, or stillbirth.

“Women in those situations can access paid parental leave to take time away from work to recover.”

Van Velden said the increase was part of the Government’s commitment to easing cost of living pressures on families during periods of leave.

“I acknowledge it continues to be tough for families right now. Paid parental leave is one way the Government can help ease the pressure of cost of living for families when they are away from work caring for children,” she said.

The increase is part of an annual adjustment under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, which links the maximum rate to average weekly earnings.