The Council of Trade Unions says it's heartless that the Workplace Relations and Safety Minister recommended a 1.3% minimum wage increase.
The Government's decided to increase minimum wage by 2% to $23.15 an hour from April.
Inflation is at 4.7%.
Council of Trade Unions Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges told Mike Hosking that all New Zealanders have a right to a liveable income.
She says the idea that people on low incomes should work harder, train more, and advance themselves is great, but there'll still be someone doing those jobs.
LISTEN ABOVE

Karl Dean: Federated Farmers Dairy Chair on the opening milk price forecast
03:27

Andy England: Darfield High School Principal on the bolstering of trades, axing of Fees Free in Budget 2026
03:13

Ruth Richardson: Former Finance Minister and Taxpayers' Union Chair unpacks Budget 2026
04:07