On 17 December primary teachers returned a majority vote to reject the offer agreed with NZEI Te Riu Roa for the Primary Teachers’ Collective Agreement, which impacts around 35,000 primary teachers.
Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said the offer was strong, fair and addressed calls from teachers and the union for recognition of the new curriculum implementation programme to lift educational achievement.
“The offer was a very good one and primary teachers have missed an opportunity to settle before the end of year,” Sir Brian says.
“The offer included pay increases of up to 4.7% by January 2027, comprised of a 2.5% increase on 28 January 2026 and a further 2.1% increase 12 months later. This is the same pay increase offered to secondary teachers and broadly comparable with the package secondary teachers accepted by majority vote.”
“The rejection of the offer is particularly disappointing, after we had adjusted elements of the offer based on the union’s preferences and representations. While we couldn’t do everything, we felt that members would support this deal.
Responding to feedback from NZEI members, the claim for additional call back days was removed. In addition, the 60% of primary teachers who receive salary units were also offered a $700 increase on the value of each unit.
“I am disappointed this offer wasn’t accepted by primary teachers, however, I am committed to good faith negotiations resuming in the new year to settle the collective agreement,” Sir Brian concluded.
