Almost 150 workers who are members of the Pulp and Paper Workers Union have today been locked out of a toilet paper factory in Kawerau over a pay dispute.
File image. Photo: 123rf
Their employer, Essity, gave them notice of the lockout last week after they rejected a 3 percent pay rise.
Union spokesperson Tane Phillips said the figure was a joke given the current cost-of-living crisis.
He said there had been no offer of negotiation talks - the 145 workers were simply told to accept the offer or face consequences.
Phillips said the lock out was indefinite, so supply of the factory's Purex and Sorbent brands may run short.
The company has been approached for comment.