On World Maritime Day (Thursday 25 September), the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) is calling for greater recognition for the invisible workforce of seafarers and waterfront workers who form the backbone of the nation’s economy.
MUNZ National Secretary Carl Findlay says the work thousands of skilled and dedicated workers onshore and on the sea underpins our entire way of life.
Established by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) and first observed in 1978, World Maritime Day recognizes the contribution of the international maritime industry to global trade and society.
For an island nation like New Zealand, which relies on sea freight for over 99% of its trade by volume, the day holds particular significance.
Mr. Findlay says that while consumers see the final product on the shelf, the complex, demanding, and often dangerous work that gets it there is easily forgotten.
“Our members work around the clock, in all weather, to ensure ships are loaded and discharged safely and efficiently. Seafarers spend months away from their families, facing the challenges of the open ocean, to keep global supply chains moving,” says Mr. Findlay.
“Waterfront workers, or stevedores, manage the complex logistics of our ports, operating heavy machinery to move millions of tonnes of cargo each year. Their skill and commitment are the reasons our exporters can reach world markets and our importers can stock our shelves.”
World Maritime Day highlights the need for continued investment in the welfare and safety of maritime workers, and in the resilience of New Zealand’s domestic shipping capabilities.
“If the last few years have taught us anything, it is that we cannot take our supply chain security for granted,” says Mr. Findlay.
The Maritime Union of New Zealand is campaigning for a national ports and shipping strategy that includes building up New Zealand coastal shipping.
