The union organiser for staff at a medicine manufacturer says workers are losing money going to work as they grapple with low wages.
Workers First Union members at Biomed Ltd, which makes IV products for hospitals, will strike for three hours on Friday, with some considering a career change over the low wages.
Union organiser Liam Bloomfield told RNZ many start off earning just over minimum wage.
“A lot of them are losing money coming in to work with the increased cost of transport, and rent, and everything else,” he said.
“They just want to be able to actually come into work, participate in society by being able to afford it.”
Bloomfield said workers were currently on an overtime ban.
“There was just so much overtime that it was almost part and parcel with the job,” he said.
“[The members] are genuinely dedicated entirely to wanting to do the role, to support the healthcare system, but getting to where we are now, it’s been a massive step for a lot of them.”
Many hadn’t gone on strike before, Bloomfield said.
“We’ve been in negotiations and bargaining since April or May, so it’s been going on for quite a while, and effectively we’ve exhausted all other avenues.”
Biomed Ltd has been approached for comment.