Full Breakdown
Resene Workers Strike Again Over Insufficient Pay Increase
11/24/2025, 12:19:26 AM
Overview of the Dispute
Workers at Resene, a paint manufacturer based in the Hutt Valley, are striking again in response to an inadequate pay offer. The latest proposal from the company provides an average increase of just eight cents per hour, bringing the total increase to 84 cents since the initial strike began in October. Union representatives and workers argue that this offer fails to meet the living wage standard and does not reflect their contributions to the company's profits.
Background of the Living Wage Campaign
The living wage campaign, which advocates for a wage that allows workers to meet their basic needs, was established in Lower Hutt in 2012. Resene's refusal to adopt this wage standard has led to significant discontent among its employees. Union delegate Margaret Jackson expressed that the company's latest offer is disrespectful, stating, “Resene still think we’re not important enough to pay the Living Wage. Their latest offer makes us feel like we’re just a number.”
Community Support and Union Response
The strike has garnered substantial support from the local community, including St David’s Church and various individuals nationwide. E tu delegate Lui Betham emphasized the determination of workers to continue their campaign, stating, “We’re striking again to get the living wage, and to show Resene we’re not backing down.” Finn O’Dwyer-Cunliffe, a team leader with E tu, criticized Resene's offer as unrealistic, especially given the rising cost of living. He noted that the company could afford to pay the living wage, which would only cost an estimated $200,000 annually.
Official Statements from Resene
In response to the ongoing strike, Resene provided a statement asserting that their pay offer aligns with the annual wage increase typical in the manufacturing sector. A company spokesman indicated that they would continue to negotiate in good faith with the E tu union, which represents a small portion of their workforce. However, managing director Nick Nightingale previously communicated that Resene does not intend to join the living wage scheme.
Criticism of the Living Wage Concept
Nightingale has also expressed his opposition to the living wage concept, arguing that it promotes a uniform pay increase regardless of individual performance. He stated, “A poorer-performing worker would likely receive the same increase as an excellent performer,” which he believes undermines merit-based pay and employee development.
Conclusion and Future Actions
As the strike continues, workers remain resolute in their demands for a living wage. The community's backing and the union's commitment suggest that further actions may be taken until Resene addresses the workers' concerns adequately. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between labor rights and corporate policies in New Zealand's manufacturing sector.
