Auckland, 13 Oct 2025
The Public Service Association says Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is wrong to blame unions for the planned 23 October strike by health workers. The union argues that long bargaining delays, underfunding, and pay that has not kept up with the cost of living are the real issues.

What the PM said

On Morning Report, the Prime Minister said New Zealanders are getting tired of unions putting politics before patients and should return to the bargaining table.

What the PSA says in reply

  • 16,000-plus health workers who are PSA members plan to strike on 23 October after bargaining failed to reach an agreement.
  • Workers include nurses, IT professionals, occupational therapists, mental health specialists, and others who support patients every day.
  • The PSA says members do not vote for strike action lightly.
  • The union claims the Government has not tabled adequate offers, with staffing shortages and wages that do not match living costs.
  • Without better offers, the PSA warns that more workers may move to Australia.
  • The union says the Government chose tax cuts when it should have funded the health workforce.
  • The PSA wants the Government to instruct its bargaining teams to make offers that can settle the dispute.

Why this matters

  • If talks do not improve, New Zealand could see service disruption on strike day.
  • Health agencies may need contingency plans to keep essential services running.
  • For patients and families, early appointment checks and staying up to date with provider notices is wise.

What could happen next

  • The Government and unions could resume talks before 23 October.
  • If a new offer is made, members may be asked to vote on it.
  • If no progress is made, strike action could go ahead, followed by further bargaining.

Key facts at a glance

  • Planned strike date, 23 October 2025
  • Workers involved, more than 16,000 PSA members in health
  • PSA position, pay, and staffing do not reflect the cost of living and service demand
  • PM position, unions should return to bargaining and avoid politics over patients

This report is based on a press release from the Public Service Association published by scoop.co.nz.