The strike action on Auckland's waterfront due to start tomorrow (Thursday, 1 December 10.30am) is already starting to cost business and disrupt pre-Christmas planning at the worst possible time, warns Auckland Chamber of Commerce head Michael Barnett.
Urging the maritime union to withdraw the action and ensure the port remains open, Mr Barnett said feedback from members showed deep concern that vital pre-Christmas import and export orders could be delayed.
He commended the Ports of Auckland and Port of Tauranga for burying their differences to agree to work together with KiwiRail to minimise the disruption to as many customers as possible.