Written by Lisa Edmondson (Master Health Coach (HCANZA), BHsNursing, PostGradDipPH, PostGradDipEd)
Reduce burnout | Improve performance | Boost attendance | Build work–life balance
Workplace wellbeing is rapidly becoming a strategic priority in New Zealand — not just a “nice to have.” With rising levels of work-related stress and burnout, organisations that invest in targeted wellbeing solutions see better engagement, retention, and productivity. Health coaching is one of the most effective and personalised approaches to supporting employee health and organisational success.
Workplace Burnout & Stress in NZ: The Reality
Burnout Rates Are High
Recent research shows more than half of New Zealand workers are in the high-burnout risk category, with burnout significantly higher now than during the pandemic (RNZ,2024). This has direct consequences for workers and employers alike.
Workload Pressures Are Widespread
Survey data from New Zealand workers reveal that many employees regularly feel pressured by high workloads, with a significant portion unable to complete all their tasks due to overload — a key contributor to work stress. (Umbrella Wellness)
Cost-of-Living Stress Affects Wellbeing
A workplace wellbeing survey found that 52 % of Kiwi workers are concerned about the risk of burnout at work, with more than half also worried about their own mental health due to cost-of-living pressures. (EMA)
Absence Is Still High
The 2023 Southern Cross / BusinessNZ Workplace Wellness report shows New Zealand workplace absence rates remain at historically high levels — with average sick and domestic leave at 9.5 days per employee, the highest on record.
These figures highlight a growing need for proactive, evidence-based wellbeing strategies in NZ workplaces. (Public Service Commission)
What Health Coaching Can Do for NZ Organisations
Health coaching is more than a wellness perk — it’s a strategic investment with measurable outcomes that aligns with research on workplace wellbeing and productivity.
1. Prevent & Reduce Burnout
Burnout is a pressing issue for NZ workers. Health coaching helps individuals identify stress triggers, build resilience, and adopt recovery practices that reduce chronic stress and burnout risk over time.
Coaching develops personalised strategies that support mental wellbeing, helping workers stay engaged, connected, and productive.
2. Improve Performance & Engagement
Employees with strong wellbeing are better performers. Health coaching supports:
- Enhanced focus and cognitive clarity
- Better energy management and motivation
- More positive workplace engagement
These improvements help organisations build high-functioning teams, reduce turnover, and sustain performance — especially across hybrid and high-demand work models.
3. Boost Attendance & Reduce Absenteeism
High absence rates, like those seen in NZ, suggest employees may be struggling with stress, health problems, or burnout. Health coaching addresses the root causes of absence by supporting preventive health habits, stress management, recovery routines, and overall resilience.
As employees feel more supported and equipped to manage their wellbeing, attendance and work consistency both improve.
4. Strengthen Work–Life Balance
A healthy work–life balance is essential to wellbeing and performance. Coaching equips employees with tools to:
- Set boundaries
- Manage workload effectively
- Prioritise rest and recovery
- Maintain energy for both work and personal life
This holistic support helps teams thrive, not just survive — particularly when pressures like cost of living and job insecurity are part of the picture.
Benefits for Employers & NZ Workplaces
According to Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand), quality work that supports wellbeing leads to reduced absenteeism and presenteeism, greater productivity, and stronger staff retention.
Health coaching aligns with these outcomes by fostering:
✔ Greater employee resilience
✔ Better psychological safety
✔ Stronger staff engagement
✔ Elevated organisational performance
This is the kind of wellbeing investment that benefits both people and business. (Te Whatu Ora)
A Strategic Approach to Workplace Wellbeing
Wellbeing is now part of what it means to be a thriving workplace in NZ — not just an employer of choice, but a sustainable, resilient, and high-performing organisation. With rising burnout and ongoing stress pressures, health coaching provides the personalised, preventative support that Kiwi workplaces increasingly need.
Invest in your people. Support their wellbeing. Build stronger organisations.