Train services will operate at a reduced timetable across Auckland's rail network at peak times for an unforeseen period due to planned industrial action from this Saturday.
Union members will refuse to work overtime or any shifts that vary from the master roster from June 8.
Auckland One Rail (AOR), the city's rail operator, said it would implement a 20-minute frequency at peak times on weekdays to cover staff shortages.
Off-peak and weekend services would be unaffected and would run to their regular frequency, however there may be some additional cancellations due to resulting staff shortages, AOR said.
In response, Auckland Transport encouraged commuters to plan ahead and expect less regular train services next week.
"We understand how deeply frustrating this will be for our rail customers, who have already had to endure ongoing disruption while we work with our partners to prepare the rail network for the opening of the City Rail Link," said AT rail franchise manager Craig Inger.
AOR has been in collective bargaining with the Rail and Maritime Union of New Zealand with mediation set for next week, he said.
"We are disappointed that it has come to industrial action, impacting many of our customers.We encourage both parties to meet and continue bargaining in order to prevent on-going disruption to Aucklanders."
Rail and Maritime Union general secretary Todd Valster told 1News the main issues were a lack of trust in AOR that proposed working groups would resolve longstanding issues.
"New issues during the term of the next Collective Agreement and the removal of a current clause will not give train drivers any certainty of work-life balance with weekend work."
Valster said the industrial action would consist of a ban on overtime and a refusal to work any shift alteration that varied from the master roster.
Auckland One Rail operated Auckland's passenger rail services on behalf of Auckland Transport. It has responsibility for train operations including provision of drivers and other train staff, development of timetables, station operations and maintenance, as well as security and customer facing activities.
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