Auckland train strike averted, Transdev and union agree to collective contract

Britomart Station. Photo /File

A planned strike by Auckland train staff has been averted.

Rail operator Transdev confirmed it had reached an agreement on a new collective contract after negotiations with the Rail and Maritime Transport Union.

The deal with go to union members to ratify this week.

Auckland train commuters had faced the prospect of industrial action affecting peak services on the Southern, Western and Eastern lines.

Rail workers in Auckland have been in collective bargaining with French-owned multi-national Transdev since May, and are against plans to do away with train managers and operate driver-only trains.

In a joint statement released today Transdev and the union said they had agreed to work "constructively and cooperatively" to resolve any outstanding issues.

"Transdev and the RMTU will enter a new process with an open mind, and are confident both parties can find an effective and positive way forward."

Auckland Transport said train staff would begin returning to their regular roster today and it was expected the timetable would be back to normal tomorrow.