SeaLink, services connecting Great Barrier Island, Waiheke, and Auckland, is facing potential disruptions just as the number of visitors begins to rise with Spring’s arrival. Workers have voted to strike over growing pay disparities.
Starting from 24 September, around 50 SeaLink workers will stage rolling strikes until 1 October, according to First Union organiser Justin Wallace. He pointed to a significant wage gap between SeaLink workers and those employed by Auckland Transport ferry providers, who recently benefited from a cash boost to improve pay for crew.
“SeaLink’s workers are struggling with the absurd cost of living in Auckland while going to work every day knowing that they are being underpaid compared to colleagues who do the same work as them on a different ferry provider,” Wallace said.
SeaLink has come under fire in recent years for soaring prices, but earlier this year, the company announced a discount programme for Barrier residents. However, with strike action looming, residents and visitors alike may face disruptions to ferry services during this key Spring period.
SeaLink has been approached for comment.
-Additional Reporting RNZ
