This isn't true. If you hear rumours, it's always best to check with the INZ website, where there is a lot of information set out, even before you could expect an answer to a question asked on here.
Work visas have multiple entry permission - or if yours doesn't in the first place, you can get this added on. That means you can come and go from NZ. Obviously, since the work visa is linked to your job, you won't be taking hugely long holidays out of the country, because of holiday allowance.
Then, when you get Residence, you have two years' travel conditions with it, which allow you to come and go freely from NZ in the same way as a born NZer. The first time you can apply for PR is when you have had Residence for two years, and here
http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migra...quirements.htm are the requirements for getting PR (having demonstrated commitment to NZ). The top paragraph is obligatory, then you have to fulfil ONE of the conditions lower down the page, with most people choosing the 'time in NZ' one, the first one. As you will see, the time requirement is half your time in NZ in each of the two years - this allows you plenty of time for holidays and visits. Well, for any normal working person!