R U OK NZ? Why Simple Conversations Matter in Aotearoa Workplaces

Mental health continues to be a serious issue in New Zealand. With hundreds of Kiwis losing their lives to suicide each year, early, simple check-ins can make a real difference-especially in the workplace, where many people spend most of their day.

While R U OK? Day is recognised annually, its message is relevant every day of the year in New Zealand:
“Are you ok?” can be one of the most powerful questions you’ll ever ask.

Why R U OK? Matters in New Zealand Workplaces

Originally an Australian initiative, R U OK? has become increasingly embraced across Aotearoa as businesses prioritise mental health and psychological safety.

Research reflects why regular kōrero (conversations) matter:

• 90% of people feel more supported when someone checks in on them.
• Many feel genuinely cared for when someone asks how they're doing.
• Regular conversations help reduce stigma-something still felt across many NZ workplaces.

In New Zealand, these check-ins are especially important because:

• NZ workplaces are shifting toward mentally healthy, people-first cultures.
• Local initiatives like Mates in Construction, All Right?, and the Mental Health Foundation NZ are driving awareness.
• Job seekers and employees face rising pressures linked to the cost of living, hybrid work, and financial uncertainty.
• Kiwi employers who focus on wellbeing benefit from lower absenteeism, higher engagement, and more resilient teams.

Workplace Mental Health Trends in New Zealand

Burnout & High Workloads

Many Kiwi workers face burnout due to:

• understaffing
• long hours
• blurred boundaries from hybrid/flexible work
• economic pressures

Helping employees maintain healthy routines and take meaningful breaks is key to preventing long-term stress.

Ongoing Post-Pandemic Impacts

Even now, NZ employees report lingering anxiety, isolation, and fatigue.
Supporting staff to adapt to new work models-while keeping mental health at the centre-is essential.

Mental Health Stigma (Still Common in NZ Industries)

In sectors like trades, logistics, and construction, stigma remains high.
Some employees fear judgment or appearing weak.

Normalising mental health conversations helps create safer, more inclusive workplaces-something many NZ companies are now prioritising.

How to Start an R U OK? Conversation

Create a safe space
Find a quiet area, away from others. Respect privacy-Kiwi workplaces value a low-pressure approach.

Ask with genuine care
Try questions like:

• “How’s things going lately?”
• “You seem a bit different-everything alright?”
• “What’s been on your mind?”

Listen openly
Let them talk. No interrupting. No judgement. Reflect back what you hear.

Encourage action
Suggest supports like:

• EAP services
• GP
• counsellor
• trusted colleague or whānau member

Follow up
Kiwis value authenticity-checking in again shows you genuinely care.

Building a Mentally Healthy Workplace in NZ

Here are proven strategies for NZ businesses:

Encourage healthy routines

• Small changes help staff recharge and build resilience.

Set realistic goals

• Break large tasks into manageable steps-common in NZ team cultures.

Promote open communication

• Create spaces where people feel comfortable speaking up.

Offer wellbeing initiatives

• Examples across NZ companies include:
• lunchtime walks
• stretching sessions
• gym membership discounts
• team wellbeing challenges

Support downtime and hobbies

• Kiwis value work-life balance-encourage personal time, creativity, and rest.

Where to Get Help in New Zealand

Emergency: Call 111.

24/7 Mental Health Support in NZ:

• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 | text 4357
• Suicide Crisis Helpline (TAUTOKO): 0508 828 865
• 1737 – Need to talk?: Call or text 1737
• Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 | text 4202
• Youthline: 0800 376 633 | text 234
• What’s Up: 0800 942 8787
• Youth Services: (06) 3555 906

Fostering a Culture of Care in Aotearoa

Why Mental Health Matters in NZ Workplaces

In Aotearoa, mental health is about connection, belonging, and supporting each other as people-not just workers.
With one in five New Zealanders experiencing a mental health challenge each year, businesses play a crucial role in creating safe, inclusive environments.

Lead With Genuine Commitment

NZ workplaces thrive when employers show authenticity, empathy, and respect. When people feel supported, they stay longer, contribute more, and feel a stronger sense of whānau at work.

Normalise Everyday Conversations

A simple “Are you OK?” can change someone’s day-or their life.

Equip Staff With Tools

Provide regular access to:

• mental health training
• wellbeing workshops
• stress-management resources
• leadership upskilling for people managers

Create Policies That Work for Real Kiwi Lives

Flexible work arrangements now shape modern NZ employment.
Support staff with policies that reflect real-life demands.

Provide Professional Support

EAP programmes, counselling options, and digital mental health tools reinforce your commitment to wellbeing.

Make Wellbeing Part of Your Culture

Include mental health in onboarding, regular check-ins, and leadership development.

Review & Improve Regularly

Use staff feedback, surveys, and real insights to guide adjustments through the year.

How ACT Safety Can Help

ACT Safety offers a Mental Health Awareness Package designed to support healthier, safer, and more connected workplaces across Aotearoa.

Our team can facilitate sessions to help your staff build confidence in recognising signs of distress, starting supportive conversations, and promoting everyday wellbeing.
For more information, get in touch:
info@actsafety.co.nz
0800 270 959