'Great news': Auckland Airport strike notice withdrawn

Detailed summary

Strikes that would have disrupted travel at Auckland Airport have been called off, with talks between staff and the airport making progress.

Strikes that would have disrupted travel at Auckland Airport have been called off, with talks between staff and the airport making progress.

E tū union issued a strike notice last week for two 24-hour strikes by the Airport Emergency Services (AES) team - firefighters and emergency responders.

They were to take place on Tuesday 24 November and Friday 27 November, potentially disrupting travel plans for thousands.

E tū on Friday withdrew the strike notice, citing an improved offer from the airport, and would go back to its membership.

"As always, reaching a resolution without the need to take industrial action is the preferred path for everyone involved," E tū assistant national secretary Mat Danaher said.

There are 69 AES members whose work is vital for flights to come and go safely. Danaher earlier this week said the workers wanted pay that recognised their specialist work, and fair compensation for the two five-day training trips firefighters must make to Singapore each year to meet Civil Aviation Authority requirements.

Auckland Airport chief operations officer Chloe Surridge said it was "great news" the strike notice had been withdrawn.

"Our priority throughout has been to avoid disruption for travellers and the New Zealand aviation sector, and to keep the airport operating safely.

"People can now travel as planned, whether they're heading away on holiday, travelling for work, or coming home to see family.

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