VTNZ workers strike

Vehicle Testing New Zealand (VTNZ) testing officials will take strike action for 24 hours on Monday, August 5 over their pay. 

Sunny Sehgal, an advocate for trade union E tū, says despite being qualified professionals, VTNZ mechanics are paid rates well below industry standard. 

"The pay is between $21.00 and $22.50 an hour, which may look good to some people, but it’s a skilful job. And it’s hazardous. They are in a car with people who may not be competent to drive," he says.

Mediation has failed to resolve the dispute, leaving members little choice but to walk off the job, he adds.

"Members are only asking for a fair increase to their wages to properly value their work and to cover the growing costs of housing, fuel and food."

Since 2014, VTNZ has been run by German company Dekra, which members say has consistently resisted improving their pay scales.

E tū member, Harun Ali says he’s a trained and qualified professional who has to manage multiple risks on the job but the pay doesn’t reflect this.

"I have a passion for this job. It’s something I love to do, but it’s risky," says Harun, who has 14 years of experience as a driver testing official.

"Drivers are often poorly prepared. There are a lot of accidents and a lot of us are being hurt. We face people who come out of jail, who are very threatening.

"We’ve been chased around the cars, bullied and threatened. A lot of times we end up calling the cops."