Strike action could cause delays for travellers in New Zealand

Travelers in New Zealand could face delays later this month after aviation security staff voted to strike in order to settle pay negotiations.

The two unions involved the Public Service Association (PSA) and the E Tu union on Tuesday announced dates for industrial action at the country's three biggest international airports for the end of the month after negotiations broke down with the Aviation Security Service (AvSec).

However, a short time later that day, they said they had agreed to mediation proposed by the Ministry of Business, Employment and Innovation in a bid to avert strike action.

"We're hopeful AvSec will be able to bring an offer to the table which will resolve this stalemate," PSA national secretary Glenn Barclay said in a statement.

The strike notice would remain until an agreement could be reached.

The unions planned three three-hour strikes each at Auckland and Wellington airports and a ban on overtime and extra hours at Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

"This strike action will be the first time Aviation Security workers have walked off the job in three decades," Barclay said.

"There will be significant disruption to the travelling public. Our members are very reluctant to do this, but they feel like they have no choice." Endit