Upcoming temporary closure – industrial action 2-4 Nov

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, 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.

See below for specific service changes in your region during this time.

Christchurch
Christchurch
Northfield 0700-1130 hrs only (walk-ins only, no bookings)
Hornby 0700-1130 hrs only (walk-ins only, no bookings)
All other Christchurch collection centres CLOSED
Christchurch Home Visits  Clinically urgent only
Ashburton
Ashburton 0830-1130HRS
Ashburton Home Visits  UNAVAILABLE

Read more here – Christchurch | Ashburton

Timaru
Dee Street  CLOSED
TemukaCLOSED
Timaru Hospital Collection CentreCLOSED
Home Visits UNAVAILABLE