The Collective way of working

How we work matters just as much as the work we do. We’re here to deliver unforgettable hospitality, but we also want every team member to feel respected, safe, and supported.

This page brings together the essentials you need to know about working with us: our standards, your responsibilities and the support you can expect in return.

These are summaries of our most imporatnt policies. For the full policies, download the Employee Handbook.

Download our Employee Handbook

Respect & Behaviour

Respect is the foundation of manaakitanga

  • Treat colleagues, guests, and clients with dignity.

  • Celebrate diversity and value everyone’s contribution.

  • No bullying, harassment, or discrimination — ever.

  • Speak up early if something feels wrong.

Health, Safety & Wellbeing

Looking after each other is part of manaakitanga. Your safety comes first. We want everyone to go home safe and well.

  • Pay attention to Health & Safety briefings and follow safety procedures

  • Report hazards, incidents or near misses straight away.

  • Keep food safe — follow hygiene and storage rules without shortcuts.

  • Stay sober and fit for duty. Smoking and vaping on your breaks only in designated areas.

  • If you’re injured or unwell, we’ll work with you on a safe return-to-work plan.

Digital & Information Security

Simple habits keep us and our clients safe.

  • Use strong passwords and lock your devices.

  • Keep company data on approved systems only.

  • Don’t share confidential details outside the business.

  • If something looks suspicious online, report it immediately.

Speaking Up

If something’s not right — speak up. Your voice matters, and you’ll always be heard.

  • We do not tolerate bullying, harassment, or discrimination.

  • Serious concerns (fraud, safety risks, unethical behaviour) can be raised under our Whistleblowing Policy — confidentially and without retaliation.

  • Concerns will always be taken seriously and investigated promptly and fairly.

Service & Presentation

Our reputation rests on the quality of our service and the pride we take in how we present ourselves.

  • Service: Deliver food and beverage with care, attention to detail, and warmth. Work as a team, solve problems quickly, and treat everyone with integrity.

  • Presentation: Wear the right uniform, keep grooming tidy, and stay professional on site. First impressions matter and you represent all of us.

Work & Time

Hospitality relies on teamwork and reliability. We’ll respect your time and support genuine rest when you need it.

  • Be on time and ready to start your shift.

  • Clock in and out on Deputy

  • If you’re sick, call your manager directly (texts aren’t enough).

  • Apply early for leave — 2 weeks for short breaks, 4 weeks for longer.

On the Move

A lot of our work happens offsite, so professionalism travels with us. Wherever we are, we represent Collective.

  • Follow client site rules and cultural protocols.

  • Keep event sites tidy, safe, and secure.

  • When driving company vehicles: hold a valid licence, obey the road rules, and keep vehicles clean. No smoking, vaping, or driving under the influence.

Workday Wellness & Movement

Looking after yourself at work matters — and that includes moving your body in ways that feel good for you. This page shares how we support wellbeing during the workweek and encourage everyday movement across all roles.

1. Move More, Feel Better

Whether you’re on your feet all shift, behind a desk, or working across different locations, regular movement helps with energy, focus, and recovery.

We encourage everyone to:

  • Take short movement or stretch breaks when you can

  • Go for a walk before, during, or after work (even a quick one counts)

  • Change positions regularly and avoid staying in one posture for too long

  • Use breaks to step away, reset, and recharge

Where possible, managers are encouraged to support flexibility that allows for movement during the workday.

2. Walking & Steps Challenges (Totally Optional)

From time to time, we may run or share casual walking or steps-based wellbeing activities. These are designed to be:

  • Optional and pressure-free

  • Inclusive of different fitness levels and roles

  • About building healthy habits, not competition

Examples might include:

  • Team or individual step challenges

  • Group walks or movement-based activities

  • Seasonal wellbeing initiatives

Join in if it works for you — or skip it if it doesn’t. It’s all good.

3. Our Take on Workday Wellness

We’re committed to supporting wellbeing at work, beyond the basics. That includes encouraging reasonable movement and healthy habits during the workday.

This can look like walking, stretching, or other low-impact movement during breaks or suitable times,while still keeping things safe and running smoothly. The aim is to support both physical and mental wellbeing and help prevent fatigue and injury over time.

4. Wellness Initiative Summary

Why we do this
To support wellbeing, reduce injury risk, and help people feel better at work.

What this includes

  • Encouraging movement and walking during the workday

  • Optional steps or walking-based activities

  • Ergonomic tips and injury-prevention guidance

  • A workplace culture that values wellbeing, not burnout

Who it’s for
Everyone — including permanent, casual and remote team members.

Keeping it relevant
We review and update our wellbeing approach from time to time based on feedback and how we work.

Got ideas for wellbeing stuff you’d actually enjoy? Let us know — we’re always open to suggestions.

Contact our staffing & HR team.

You should always feel comfortable going to your manager with any questions or issues. But you can also contact us through this form or directly to our teams below.