Globalisation, Trade and Unionisation in an Open Economy: The Case of New Zealand

Since the shift in Government policy toward a more open economy in the 1980s, New Zealand product markets, particular in manufacturing, have experienced a surge in import competition as well as growth in exports to other countries. During this same period, unionisation in New Zealand has declined. This study looks at the impact of globalisation and international trade on levels of unionisation and union organising success in New Zealand's manufacturing sector since implementation of the Government's more open trade policies in the 1980s. Particular focus is given to the period following implementation of 1991 Employment Contracts Act.