19 May 2021 | 08:15 AM UTC
New Zealand: Bus service disruptions likely in Wellington 09:00-15:00 May 20 during union meeting
Bus service disruptions likely in Wellington, New Zealand, 09:00-15:00 May 20 during labor union meeting. Confirm transport arrangements.
Event
Unionized bus drivers plan to hold a stop-work meeting in Wellington 09:00-15:00 May 20 amid an ongoing labor dispute with NZ Bus. The meeting will halt an estimated 200 bus services during the period; the disruptions will most likely impact Wellington City Transport and Cityline-operated bus lines.
The cancellations will likely lead to increased demand for taxis and wider use of private vehicles May 20, exacerbating traffic congestion. Increased crowding is also likely on rail services.
Context
Tramways Union and NZ Bus have negotiated a collective agreement for more than eight months. However, drivers remain concerned over alleged attempts to alter enhanced pay for late-night and weekend shifts and limits on the number of hours drivers can work without extra compensation. NZ Bus has offered workers a one-time payment and higher hourly wages to entice them into another collective agreement. However, Tramways Union leaders have decried the offer, which they claim does not address workers' concerns about overtime or extra work. The union is holding the May 20 meeting vote on a potential labor action. Workers last went on strike for 24 hours, April 23-24; additional bus service disruptions are possible in the coming weeks.
Advice
Confirm bus schedules. Allow additional travel time due to likely increased traffic congestion and higher demand for rail service.
