Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Christchurch
Reference No [2014] NZERA Christchurch 206
Hearing date 4 Dec 2014
Determination date 08 December 2014
Member M B Loftus
Representation K Dalziel ; P Moore, A Oberndorfer
Location Christchurch
Parties K T Ventures Ltd v Johnson
Summary INJUNCTION – RESTRAINT OF TRADE – Applicant sought interim injunction restraining respondent from breaching restraint of trade clause (“ROT”) in parties’ employment agreement – Area manager
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;INJUNCTION – RESTRAINT OF TRADE: Applicant had arguable case of proprietary interest given lack of rebuttal by respondent but merits of case completely unknown. No evidence to show respondent could not recompense applicant if harm caused. Potentially no issue as to damages given no harm to applicant alleged. Viable alternatives to enforcing ROT. Balance of convenience favoured respondent strongly given little evidence of claim’s merit and fact respondent would face considerable hardship if forced to resign from new employer just prior to Christmas. Applicant yet to furnish evidence necessary to justify inordinately long 12 month restraint period. Application for injunctive relief declined.
Result Application dismissed ; Costs reserved
Main Category Injunction
Cases Cited Hally Labels Ltd v Powell (2011) 8 NZELR 532;Klissers Farmhouse Bakeries Ltd v Harvest Bakeries Ltd [1985] 2 NZLR 129;Pottinger v Kelly Services (New Zealand) Ltd [2012] ERNZ 411
Number of Pages 7
PDF File Link: 2014_NZERA_Christchurch_206.pdf [pdf 156 KB]