C3 (formerly Toll Owens), the Rail & Maritime Transport Union and the Maritime Union of New Zealand

C3 is a joint venture between the Port of Tauranga and Toll Holdings.  It is New Zealand's largest on-wharf logistics company, with over 600 staff providing services at 11 ports in the stevedoring, marshalling, warehousing and transport, distribution and logistics sectors. 

The object was to develop a workplace partnership between the parties to assist them to develop a best practice employment relations strategy and practices to build a “whole of company” culture. 

The successful renewal of the Collective Agreement in difficult economic times without industrial action is attributed by the parties to the relationship and skills developed through the PRC process.  Underpinning these initiatives was the development of a formal heads of agreement which defines and guides the relationship.

There is now regular and systematic engagement between management and union members at all levels. The foci are on the future direction of the business and the staff required for the future.

Problem solving skills are now used to assist the parties where previously there was conflict or a focus on referral to the Employment Relations Authority.

“Your involvement and efforts in our C3/RMTU partnership program have certainly had a huge influence on us being able to put together a collective agreement with some solid foundations for the future benefit of ourselves, C3 and future C3 employees.” Union delegate

“The partnership programme between the RMTU and C3 Ltd has enhanced communication and understanding.  We believe there is a genuine desire by the RMTU for the company to succeed and that the RMTU play an important role in both parties moving forward.  Although early days, and there will be challenges ahead, it is pleasing that the relationship is about solutions and not creating problems.” Acting Chief Executive