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The National Union of Public Employees is a public service union that represents both members in the government and NGO Sectors. NUPE is proud to be involved in efforts to improve the lives of workers and their families. Our priority is improving terms and conditions of members and advocating for safety. From our early days in 1992, we have been a leading organization in the struggle for economic and social justice. By fighting for legislative improvements and bargaining for better terms and conditions in employment agreements, we continuously strive to raise work standards. NUPE offers members representation in employment matters, advocacy and collective bargaining.

Message From The Secretary 

Kia ora everyone,

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s fair to say it has been a big and challenging year.

The NUPE office has been extremely busy, with bargaining across all groups, supporting members through individual meetings, and navigating multiple change processes. We have also seen a change in the office, with Vic, our Admin Officer, moving on to another role. We would like to sincerely thank her for her contribution and hard work over the past years.

Politically, it has been an extraordinary year, with significant pressure placed on workers’ rights, terms, and conditions. NUPE will continue to make submissions where members are affected by proposed changes, and we are also in the process of setting up meetings with Ministers in an effort to influence what is happening.

We recently held a Fudge Tour for our NGO members in Christchurch, many of whom have been impacted by the Government’s decision to halt pay equity settlements progressing to improved rates in that sector.

Andrew Mackenzie has acted on behalf of NUPE members in several cases this year, and we are pleased to report some strong wins, particularly within Oranga Tamariki. While it is frustrating that matters sometimes need to be pushed to that level to achieve the right outcome, it is at times necessary.

Everyone has been working incredibly hard, and we feel more strongly than ever that it is important to keep pushing, particularly for improved conditions and workplace safety.

Many NUPE members work with high-risk groups, often in unpredictable environments where behaviour can at times be violent or aggressive, and where complaints — including false complaints — may be made against staff.

Please remember:

Maintain line of sight

Work in pairs

Do not take unnecessary risks

If you are threatened, hurt, or assaulted, please let NUPE know. You can contact us via the website, email, or by leaving a phone message. The online written form on the NUPE website is the best way to ensure your message is received.

The 2025/26 NUPE Executive is:

Alistair Lawrence, James McKinney, Donna Mackintosh, Lynette O’Neill, Luke Jenner, Lawrence Hamlin, Marjon Stegehuis, Stephen Jones, Sam Hooper, and Angela Meier.

We held a Special General Meeting on 1 December, prior to the Executive meeting. Members were invited to review the new NUPE Constitution, as required under new legislation to re-register the Union. The meeting accepted the new Constitution, and NUPE is now re-registered as an Incorporated Society.

I hope members are able to get a break over summer, and that you all stay safe and healthy.

Ngā mihi nui,

Janice Gemmell

Secretary/Manager

National Union of Public Employees

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