The Association of Salaried Medical Professionals has called one-off payments and providing snacks to staff "tone deaf"

Executive Director Sarah Dalton says a $10 wellbeing payment from Capital and Coast DHB had the unintended consequence of creating payroll confusion, and leaving some slightly out of pocket.

A DHB spokesperson says while a recent change in the ACC Earner's Levy and union deductions have affected some staff account balances - the allowance was paid with their usual salary payment.

They'll continue to roll out wellbeing initiatives including snack boxes and "deluxe" hot drink sachets.

Nelson Marlborough Health says a $50 payment was given to staff to go towards a hot drink and is part of a national wellbeing agreement among DHBs.