Auckland hui
Over 10,000 people from unions and the wider community across Aotearoa New Zealand united in a resounding call for justice, solidarity, and a better future at the Fight Back Together – Maranga Ake hui in October. Held in 12 locations, from Whangārei to Invercargill, the hui showcased the formidable power of collective action and sent a crystal-clear message to the Government: workers and communities demand better.
The mobilisation was a direct response to the National-led Government’s anti-worker agenda. Key issues raised included the scrapping of Fair Pay Agreements, the reinstatement of 90-day ‘fire at will’ trials, and a minimum wage increase that failed to keep pace with inflation. Workers also expressed concerns about looming threats to employment rights, health and safety legislation, and the progress of pay equity.
The hui cast a spotlight on issues extending beyond workplace relations, highlighting the erosion of public healthcare, inadequate housing policies, and attacks on te Tiriti o Waitangi and te ao Māori – all deeply interconnected challenges.
E tū members stepped up at every hui, sharing their stories and giving voice to the concerns of workers across the motu. E tū Youth Network Convenor Rangimarie Chase, who attended the Hamilton hui, described the event as a powerful expression of solidarity.
“It was an amazing experience,” Rangi said. “I loved seeing people from across industries come together to share how we feel as workers, constantly bombarded with attacks from this Government.
“My favourite part was watching my friend Vicky from the care industry deliver an impassioned speech about the need for decent work and fair pay. We all know how tough it is for workers in the care sector, who care for our most vulnerable loved ones under increasingly difficult conditions.
“It’s vital that our unions continue working together on these issues. What happens to some workers represented by E tū could also be affecting workers represented by other unions. Workers must be able to communicate and organise across workplaces. “As a result of our union movement’s campaigns, I hope to see the end of 90-day trials. I hope changes to health and safety laws won’t place workers in greater danger, and it’s high time this Government recognised the importance of a Just Transition. They must take action to support the workers who need it most.”
While the hui were a major milestone, they form part of a broader, ongoing campaign. Hui have set the stage for a wave of activism that promises to reshape the political and social landscape in the months ahead. The message is clear:
the fight for justice is far from over, but the resolve of workers and communities is stronger than ever.
Wellington hui
Dunedin hui
At every Fight Back Together hui, everyone in attendance passed the following motions, affirming what workers need in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Motion One
We demand better paid, safer and more secure work, more mana at work and more say how things are done at work.
Motion Two
We demand better public and social infrastructure, public services, better health, and education.
Motion Three
We demand that the Government end their flagrant attacks on Māori and honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi so that Māori rights and interests are protected and recognised across Aotearoa, and Māori workers are afforded dignity.
Motion Four
We demand immediate action on reducing inequality, by making the living wage the minimum wage, by bringing in real pay equity, and by taxing everyone fairly.
Motion Five
We demand action to tackle AI and climate change, leaving no worker behind.
