And a show of “solidarity and support” for the 10-strong team of negotiators, from NZNO-Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa, will get underway upon their arrival at Christchurch Hospital’s Manawa building, where the bargaining will kick off, said NZNO delegate and convenor Al Dietschin.
“We want to welcome the team, show them that we support them and are with them on what’s likely to be a very difficult bargaining because of the current political environment.”
The NZNO bargaining team will be trying to get 40 claims across the line with Te Whatu Ora, on a range of matters, including health and safety, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, safe staffing, professional development and wages.
“We will begin the show of solidarity with a karakia. We also have a photo collage of images captured from the recent nationwide day of action, that will be hung in the negotiation room,” said Dietschin.
“We need Te Whatu Ora to know that our team carries the weight and voices of thousands of nurses throughout the country.”
After the two-day bargaining this week in Christchurch, the negotiations will move to Wellington on October 9, said Dietschin.
All NZNO members, and whānau who support them, are welcome to take part in tomorrow’s show of solidarity at Christchurch Hospital starting 8.30am.
- This article was updated on September 26 with a photo of the 2024 Te Whatu Ora bargaining team.