by Mike Bain – The Daily Examiner.
Today, workers across New Zealand are taking to the streets in a Nationwide Day of Action to protest the Government’s perceived anti-worker agenda.
Organized by the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions (NZCTU), the demonstrations coincide with May Day, a date of profound importance for workers and unions worldwide.
May Day, also known as International Workers’ Day, is celebrated annually on May 1 to honor the labor movement and its historic struggles for workers’ rights.
The origins of May Day trace back to the late 19th century, particularly the Haymarket Affair in Chicago in 1886, where workers fought for an eight-hour workday. Over time, the day has become a global symbol of solidarity and advocacy for fair treatment, better working conditions, and social justice.
In New Zealand, May Day holds special relevance as unions have long been at the forefront of advocating for workers’ rights, pay equity, and honoring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff emphasized the importance of the day, stating, “Every year on May Day, workers and their unions around the world celebrate the union movement, our history, and our purpose—to build workers’ power and solidarity.”
This year’s demonstrations come amid growing frustration with the Government’s policies, which unions claim have eroded workers’ rights, destroyed jobs, and harmed the economy over the past 18 months. Wagstaff added, “Workers are sick and tired of having their rights trampled on by this Government.
This Thursday, we will be out in force to demand change.”
Thousands of workers from both public and private sectors are participating in various actions, including lunchtime hui, stop-work meetings, and strikes.
Key events are being held in 12 centers across the country, from Whāngarei to Invercargill. Health unions have also organized events at hospitals to highlight workers’ rights and issues within the public health system.
Event Locations and Times:
- Whāngarei: Tarewa Park, 12–1 PM
- Auckland: Manukau Plaza, 12–1 PM
- Hamilton: Hamilton Lake Rose Garden, 12:30–1:30 PM
- New Plymouth: Huatoki Plaza, 12–1 PM
- Mt Maunganui: Hopukiore (Mt Drury) Reserve, 12–1 PM
- Rotorua: Ranolf & Arawa St roundabout, 12–1 PM
- Palmerston North: Arena 3, 12:30–1:30 PM
- Wellington: Queens Wharf, 12–1 PM
- Nelson: 1903 Square (Top of Trafalgar St), 12:30–1:30 PM
- Christchurch: Addington Raceway, 12–1 PM
- Dunedin: Otago University Student Union Hall, 12:30–1:30 PM
- Invercargill: Workingmen’s Club, 12:30–1:30 PM
As workers rally across the nation, the NZCTU is calling for pay equity, an end to the attack on unions, and a commitment to honoring Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The demonstrations serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring significance of May Day and the ongoing fight for workers’ rights in New Zealand.
