A new study has revealed 34 per cent of New Zealanders have called in sick to have a "lazy day" off work.
In the survey of 4000 Kiwis by employment site Seek the "lazy or duvet days" were spent relaxing and recharging, getting some exercise, and binge-watching favourite TV shows.
Although the boss might not approve, Seek resident psychologist Sabina Read said the occasional lazy day was good for mental health.
"After a tough 16 months many Kiwis' have been reluctant to take time for themselves with annual leave balances piling up.
"It's not surprising that we're feeling tired, overwhelmed, or possibly drained and even resentful."
Read said it was no surprise, with more awareness and conversations around mental health, that New Zealanders admitted to taking a day to do nothing.
"Don't be fooled by the idea of lazy - what that really means is that more of us are recognising and prioritising our own needs, boundaries, and wellbeing.
"Because no matter who we are, or what we do, we can't pour from an empty cup"
The Seek survey also found the majority of New Zealanders think people should be entitled to have one day off a year to spend on themselves.
And a third of those surveyed said there should be "a public holiday devoted to doing nothing".
The results come just weeks after the minimum number of sick leave days that employees are entitled to doubled from five to 10.
