Less Working Hours Same Productivity
When will NZ go into the 4 day working week? It cannot be too far off surely.
Of course it wont be for everyone because some industries have different requirements but for the large majority it will work and you can guarantee that productivity is unlikely to suffer. In fact it could increase due to the incentive produced.
Iceland, a wealthy tier one country like NZ, has experienced a 35 hour working week for 86% of its working population over a 4 year period and the results are appreciative workers with no productivity losses and no reduction in wages/salaries.
Next on the cards for Iceland is the 4 day working week and this is due to also be experimented in several other wealthy European countries. It has been envisaged in France for some years now but the plunge is still to be taken.
The 4 day week is expected to increase daily working hours to nine hours to produce a 36 hour working week and most businesses will close either on the Monday or Friday to create an elongated weekend. But there are also several other options such as some staff on and some off scenario and mid week day off.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.3% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.8% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
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