The pay offer from NZ Bus would have raised the base wage rate but would slash overtime pay and additional benefits such as double-time pay on weekends and after midnight that can be worth thousands of dollars a year to drivers.
The deal also offered drivers with more than five years’ service a cash bonus of $10,000 if the deal was accepted. Those with less than 5 years' service would receive $5000.
Tramways Secretary Kevin O’Sullivan labelled the payment a “bribe” and said the union would not be accepting cash payments for giving up terms and conditions going forward.
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