Workplace Investigations
Independent, thorough and legally sound — get help with workplace investigations NZ businesses can rely on.
Workplace complaints and allegations of misconduct can be complex, sensitive and difficult to manage. When a serious concern is raised, it is important that it is handled promptly, fairly and objectively — both to support those involved and to minimise potential risk to your organisation.
At Positive People, we provide independent workplace investigation services for New Zealand organisations. Our investigators are licensed Private Investigators under the Private Investigators and Security Guards Act 2010 and hold the appropriate Ministry of Justice licensing. This provides an additional level of professional oversight and supports our commitment to conducting thorough, impartial and independent investigations.
When is a workplace investigation appropriate?
Workplace investigations are generally used when there is a significant concern or allegation that needs to be independently examined and the facts established.
Complaints may involve:
- Bullying or harassment
- Workplace misconduct
- Inappropriate behaviour
- Interpersonal conflict or serious relationship breakdowns
- Discrimination or unfair treatment
- Breaches of workplace policies or procedures
- Allegations about management or leadership behaviour
- Other serious concerns about conduct in the workplace
Not every workplace complaint requires a formal investigation. We can help you assess the circumstances and determine the most appropriate approach before commencing an investigation.
An independent and structured approach
An independent investigation can be particularly valuable when there are concerns about impartiality, potential conflicts of interest, or when the issues are particularly sensitive. Having an external investigator also allows those involved to speak openly to someone who is independent of the organisation.
Our investigation process is structured around establishing the facts and providing everyone involved with a fair opportunity to be heard.
Depending on the circumstances, this may include:
- Understanding the concerns and defining the scope of the investigation
- Developing an appropriate investigation plan
- Reviewing relevant documentation and other evidence
- Interviewing the complainant, respondent and relevant witnesses
- Giving the respondent an appropriate opportunity to respond to the allegations
- Assessing and considering the information gathered objectively
- Identifying areas where the evidence supports or does not support the allegations
- Preparing a clear, factual investigation report
- Providing recommendations or guidance on appropriate next steps, where required
We understand that workplace investigations can be stressful for everyone involved. Our experienced HR professionals take a calm, professional and respectful approach, while maintaining appropriate confidentiality throughout the process.
Helping you make informed decisions
The purpose of an investigation is to establish the facts — not to reach a predetermined outcome. A well-conducted investigation provides you with reliable information on which to base your next steps and can help demonstrate that the organisation has taken concerns seriously and followed a fair and reasonable process.
Whether you are dealing with a complaint for the first time or have a complex workplace matter that requires an independent perspective, Positive People can provide the expertise and support you need.
