Half of poll respondents keen on four-day working week

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

More than half of respondents to this week's Herald web poll prefer a four-day working week.

Fifty-two percent (156 people) answered “yes” to the question “Would you like to work four days a week and have a three-day weekend?”

Twenty-six percent (79) said they would like to but would not be able to while 19 percent (59) answered “no”.

A total of 302 people took part.

“Maximum production by working four days will help New Zealand get better,” said one.

“Would make people more productive in the long run and start the week running,” said another.

“It's a great idea. The option to work four days would be nice for the frugal among us.”

“As Kiwis we will spend the money.”

“Adjust to a few less fancy things and you'll end up with more.”

“Years ago I worked four 10-hour days and it was great. Seemed to be more productive once you got into the swing of it. Didn't even notice the two hours extra a day in the end.”

“More time with family and long weekend trips,” said one respondent.

“But less pay? Which 4 days? Changing days? Who decides? What a potential mix-up. NO, NO, NO!”

“Companies and employers have too much to lose.”

“Not possible for the tourism industry.”

“Larger businesses will be able to survive, whereas smaller businesses will need to employ more staff.”

“Stop promoting the prime minister's nonsense”.