Nearly 20,000 secondary school teachers across New Zealand went on strike today after rejecting a pay offer from the Government.
The Post Primary Teachers’ Association (PPTA) says the 1% annual pay rise over three years is unfair and will make it harder to keep and hire teachers. The strike took place outside many schools, including Kelston Girls’ College and Westlake Girls’ High School in Auckland.
Teachers held signs reading “Value Teachers” and “The Numbers Do Not Add Up” as they waved to passing cars. Many said they would rather be teaching but felt the strike was needed to make their voices heard.
The Government says the offer is reasonable. Associate Education Minister David Seymour said teachers should continue talks instead of striking. He pointed out that many teachers already earn over $100,000 and that salaries have risen by 14% in recent years.
However, PPTA president Chris Abercrombie called the offer “appalling” and said it was the lowest in a generation. He warned that if there is no progress, teachers may begin a new action in September, such as refusing to teach certain year levels on certain days.
Teachers are also asking for better support staff, more time for training, and help with curriculum changes. Public Service Minister Judith Collins criticized the strike, calling it a “political stunt” that could disrupt students preparing for exams.
Despite the disruption, school leaders like Papatoetoe High School principal Vaughan Couillault say most students can manage missing one day. He hopes both sides will return to the bargaining table soon.
Teachers say this strike isn’t just about money — it’s about feeling respected and supported in the important job they do every day.
