Nurses at Christchurch Public Hospital, Hillmorton, and Burwood will strike today from 11am to 7pm.

Nurses will gather outside each hospital at 11AM to protest over pay and working conditions.

Supporters are welcome to join the protests.

Later in the day they will march to the Bridge of Remembrance.

Acting Chief Executive for Canterbury and West Coast DHBs, Becky Hickmott said urgent and emergency care will remain available throughout the period of the planned strike. This includes the Emergency Department, acute (unplanned) surgery, all intensive care units, cancer care and the Renal Dialysis unit.”

“111 calls will be responded to as usual and people should access urgent and emergency care as they normally would, but expect things to be busy.”

Hickmott said  “If you have a family member or support someone who will be in hospital on the day of the strike, you are welcome to spend extra time with them between 11am until 7pm this Wednesday, 9 June, when many NZNO members (nurses, midwives and healthcare assistants) across New Zealand will be on strike.”

“You’d also be most welcome to help with non-clinical tasks, but being there to support and reassure your family member or  the person you support is the most important thing.”

”Hospital-based services in Canterbury will be severely affected but the Emergency Department, maternity services, emergency surgery, cancer care, the Renal Dialysis Unit and ambulances will all be operating.”

“While our focus will be on minimising the impact on patients, lower staffing levels will slow things down. Our staff would greatly appreciate your patience and understanding at this time.”

“If you are unwell in Canterbury but it isn’t urgent phone your usual General Practice team for advice, day or night. Otherwise, access urgent care and emergency services as you usually would during the strike period.”