Understanding Workplace Bullying in New Zealand and How to Address Your Gut Feelings
- Maryline Suchley
- May 6
- 3 min read
Workplace bullying affects many people in New Zealand, yet it often goes unspoken or misunderstood. If you have a gut feeling that something is wrong at work, it might be bullying. Recognising what workplace bullying looks like and knowing what steps to take can protect your wellbeing and help create a safer work environment.
What Is Workplace Bullying in New Zealand?
WorkSafe New Zealand defines workplace bullying as repeated and unreasonable behaviour directed towards a worker or a group of workers that creates a risk to health and safety. This behaviour can be verbal, physical, or psychological and often undermines a person’s dignity or safety at work.
Bullying is not a one-time incident or a difference of opinion. It involves ongoing actions that make the workplace hostile or intimidating. The key elements are repetition and unreasonableness, which means the behaviour is persistent and unjustified.
Examples of Workplace Bullying
WorkSafe provides clear examples to help identify bullying. These include:
Verbal abuse such as yelling, swearing, or insulting comments.
Exclusion or isolation from work activities or social events.
Unfair criticism or constant negative feedback without constructive advice.
Spreading rumours or gossip that damage reputation.
Overloading with work or setting impossible deadlines.
Ignoring or withholding information needed to do the job.
Threats or intimidation to pressure or control someone.
Physical abuse or aggressive behaviour, though less common, is also bullying.
These behaviours can come from managers, colleagues, or even clients. Sometimes bullying is subtle and hard to spot, but it still causes harm.
Trusting Your Gut Feeling About Bullying
If you feel uneasy or anxious about how you are treated at work, trust that feeling. Your gut can alert you to bullying even if you cannot immediately name it. Signs that your gut feeling might be right include:
Feeling constantly stressed, anxious, or depressed about work.
Dreading going to work or feeling unsafe.
Noticing changes in your health, such as headaches or trouble sleeping.
Feeling isolated or excluded by colleagues.
Experiencing unfair treatment compared to others.
Ignoring these feelings can worsen the impact on your mental and physical health. It is important to take your concerns seriously.
What You Can Do If You Suspect Bullying
Taking action can feel difficult, but there are steps you can follow to protect yourself and address the situation:
1. Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of incidents that feel like bullying. Note dates, times, what happened, who was involved, and any witnesses. This information will be useful if you decide to report the behaviour.
2. Seek Support
Talk to someone you trust, such as a colleague, friend, or family member. Sometimes sharing your experience can help you feel less alone and clarify your thoughts.
3. Check Your Workplace Policies
Most workplaces have policies on bullying and harassment. Review these to understand your rights and the procedures for reporting bullying.
4. Raise the Issue
If you feel safe, consider speaking directly to the person involved or your manager. Sometimes people are unaware of how their behaviour affects others. If this is not possible or does not help, use formal channels like your HR department or health and safety representative.
5. Contact WorkSafe or Other Support Services
WorkSafe New Zealand provides guidance and support for workplace bullying. You can also reach out to unions, employment advocates, or counselling services for advice.
Creating a Safer Workplace
Preventing bullying requires a culture where respect and fairness are priorities. Employers should:
Provide clear policies and training on bullying.
Encourage open communication and feedback.
Act promptly on complaints.
Support workers’ mental health and wellbeing.
Workers can contribute by treating others with respect, speaking up against bullying, and supporting colleagues who may be affected.
Final Thoughts
Workplace bullying is a serious issue that affects many people in New Zealand. If your gut tells you something is wrong, listen carefully and take steps to protect yourself. Document incidents, seek support, and use available resources to address the problem. Creating a respectful workplace benefits everyone and helps ensure that work is a safe place for all.
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