Upcoming Lab strike action – impact on services across Te Manawa Taki

APEX union members will take strike action on Wednesday 5 and Friday 7 February 2025.

This will affect access to lab testing across Te Manawa Taki from 5 to 10 February, as the strike period includes Waitangi Day (6 February) and the weekend.

Te Whatu Ora, laboratories, and PHOs are working on contingency plans, including defining life-preserving services and urgent tests that will still be processed.

APEX union members will take strike action on Wednesday 5 and Friday 7 February 2025. This will affect access to lab testing across Te Manawa Taki from 5 to 10 February, as the strike period includes Waitangi Day (6 February) and the weekend.

Te Whatu Ora, laboratories, and PHOs are working on contingency plans, including defining life-preserving services and urgent tests that will still be processed. Pathlab has advised they will produce a detailed plan of action, hopefully by the end of today, including what lab services will be accessible to GPs. 

Practices are advised not to hold additional risk for patients during this period. If urgent test results are required, consider referral to emergency departments where appropriate.

Practices are advised not to hold additional risk for patients during this period. If urgent test results are required, consider referral to emergency departments where appropriate.

For the latest updates on lab services in your area, please check the website(s) of the pathology labs you use or refer to the PDF Notice.

• Awanui Labs: Website
• Pathlab: Website; PDF Notice

Medlab Central: PDF Notice

Storage time before sending swabs, etc. to the lab.