Infidelities 'rampant' at work Christmas parties

Staff members going to work Christmas parties this season could wake up with more than just a hangover, with infidelities "rampant'' during the silly season, a private investigator warns.

A recent survey of 1168 workers by a condom manufacturer found 49 percent would like to have sex at an office Christmas party given the opportunity.

With the combination of alcohol, reduced inhibitions and intention, large numbers of relationships will start to show the cracks of infidelity leading up to and during the Christmas and New Year period, private investigator Kerrie Pihema said.

"If you suspect your spouse of being romantically involved with someone at work, we strongly recommend you attend the office party,'' Ms Pihema said.

"Do not be put off by your partner suggesting the Christmas party is a 'closed shop' or that you will not know anyone there. Arrange for a babysitter if you have children, wear your fancy attire and turn up.''

She said if people had genuine concerns about their partner and workplace infidelity then Christmas parties were a source of information that may be "too valuable to your relationship to miss''.

- NZPA