According to Neil Smith, the United Workers Union’s national dairy co-ordinator, the employees are pushing for a four-year enterprise agreement, a higher redundancy payout, and safety improvements. These demands include a new allowance for heavy lifting and a chemical allowance, reflecting the physically demanding nature of dairy work. Smith emphasized that the workers who built the company deserve a fair deal that provides them with financial security and job certainty, especially given their years of dedication.

A striking employee, Kathy Faulker, expressed the frustration felt by her colleagues, calling the negotiations a “one-sided tug of war.” She noted that what the workers are asking for is less than what Fonterra employees at other sites are paid. The strikes are an effort to look out for both long-term employees and newer staff, as they fight for a secure financial future for their families and for the stability of the local dairy industry.

In response, Fonterra Oceania supply chain and operations director Rob Howell stated that the company is “disappointed” with the stalled negotiations. He claimed that the company has been offering a fair deal since March 2025, which includes a 10% pay rise over three years (less than the workers’ requested 5% over four years), as well as better allowances and leave options. Howell also expressed disappointment that the union seems to prefer industrial action over reaching an agreement.