In December,
Port Strategy
reported that mediation strikes between the port and the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) had ended in failure.
The strikes have already cost Auckland Maersk’s Southern Star service and there has been talk of job losses.
Ports of Auckland chief executive, Tony Gibson has said that loss of business is inevitable as customers look for alternatives and contingencies because of the need for a reliable service.
Dave Christie, general manager customer supply chain at Fonterra, said to PS: “Fonterra has moved most of its export shipments from Auckland to other ports from the end of January until further notice. The Co-operative made this decision to ensure certainty of supply for its international customers.”
The port has revised its offering to the union – which includes a 10% pay increase, 20% bonuses on hourly rates and the retention of existing benefits and entitlements.
MUNZ has retaliated by saying that the strikes have actually been about job security, not wages. The MUNZ website states that “the union is always prepared to negotiate and wanted a resolution, but would not give away hard won job security”.
Meanwhile, the port is gearing up for the next strikes due to take place between 9 and 11 January.
