APEX Union have announced their members who work at Awanui Labs in the Northern, Central and South Island regions will take industrial action (strike) from 2 – 4 November 2026 inclusive – a continuous 72-hour period.

​The strike is a full withdrawal of labour, which means APEX Union members who work in the laboratory, collection centres, and logistics and support staff (in some regions), will strike on these days. Our priority is keeping our people and patients safe and maintaining essential laboratory services during the strike period.

Awanui respects the right of union members within our organisation to strike, and we understand these periods in the business can create a challenging environment.

​We thank you for your continued understanding and support during this time.

Services changes in Taranaki

Due to this industrial action, some of our collection centres will be closed from 2-4 November 2026. They will reopen with normal hours on Thursday 5 November. Please put off your visit on these days unless your GP or healthcare provider has marked your tests as urgent.

See below for opening hours from 2-4 November:

• New Plymouth, 179 Gill St: 0900 – 1200 hrs
• Bell Block, 1 Paraite Rd: Urgent blood test by appointment only 1300 – 1700 hrs
• Stratford, 12 Romeo St: 4 November 0830 – 1600 hrs
• Hawera, 41 Hunter St: 2-4 November 0830 – 1545 hrs

Collection centre details will be up to date and can be found here: Awanui Labs Taranaki