Police officers overwhelmingly reject latest pay offer

WELLINGTON: Police officers have overwhelmingly rejected the latest pay offer, saying it falls short of addressing their concerns and needs.

The Police Association said more than 75% of its members voted against the offer, which was put forward by the government last month.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell says the rejection of the latest police pay offer is an ‘‘incredibly disappointing’’ outcome.

Last month, police described the previous pay offer as ‘‘insulting‘‘, ‘‘disgusting’’ and ‘‘demoralising’’ as members were presented with the same offer which they had rejected in September 2023.

Mr Mitchell at the time said the government was negotiating in ‘‘tough economic times’’.

He had insisted the government would not break its promise to recruit more police.

However, Police Association president Chris Cahill said members were looking for a sincere effort by the government to address the cost of living crisis and recognise the increasing dangers officers faced.

‘‘This offer fails to provide any real attempt to remedy the steady decline in officers’ salaries, particularly when measured against comparable professions’ salaries, such as teachers and nurses,’’ Mr Cahill said.

‘‘If police and the government genuinely value the role and commitment of officers, they need to lift their game in the remuneration stakes. They have one more chance to do that.’’

The Police Association will now ask the mediator to immediately direct negotiations to final offer arbitration.

‘‘We have a clear expectation that government will now fund police to improve what it puts on the table at final offer arbitration,’’ Mr Cahill said.

Earlier this month, Mr Mitchell admitted the government could not compete with the salaries Australia was offering New Zealand officers in a recruitment campaign it had launched. — RNZ