This forum is really helpful and good support for people seeking for immigration help. I was silent member on this forum from last three months because my case was little bit different than others.
My timeline as below;
Eoi apply-26/09/2016 (points 170)
Eoi selected -5/10/16
Ita lodged - 03/11/16 (Hamilton Brach)
CO Assigned-25/11/17
AIP -25/11/17 (ask for payslips +passports)

Passport stamped -03/02/17

No employer verification.
We applied under SMC resident visa. My partner got 12 months fixed contract in which she is covering maternity leave and it was all mentioned on the first page of contract. According to INZ contract should be stated for 12 months and should based on reasonable grounds.
Reasonable grounds are as below;
http://kb.immigration.govt.nz/item/21995

I would like to clear the statement of ongoing and sustainable employment. I have attached the below link in which immigration clearly define this statement;
http://kb.immigration.govt.nz/item/18707

We both are so happy. Hope you all get sorted soon.
BTW we both are Indian. I am mentioning this because I have seen this in another forum that immigration holding SMC application of Indians. i really don't believe this.

Please feel free if you have any concern about 12 months fixed term contract case.