Story perspectives

New Zealand Court Designates Uber Drivers as Employees

11/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

On November 18, 2025, New Zealand's Supreme Court ruled four Uber drivers are employees, not independent contractors, granting minimum wage, paid leave, and collective bargaining rights.
The court found Uber exerts significant control over drivers, despite their ability to choose hours and work for competitors.
While limited to four drivers, the ruling could spur global challenges to status and signal a broader shift toward employee classification for ride-hail workers.

1 of 1

Story summary

On November 18, 2025, New Zealand's Supreme Court ruled four Uber drivers are employees, not independent contractors, granting minimum wage, paid leave, and collective bargaining rights.
The court found Uber exerts significant control over drivers, despite their ability to choose hours and work for competitors.
While limited to four drivers, the ruling could spur global challenges to status and signal a broader shift toward employee classification for ride-hail workers.