The geohazard monitoring centre detects possible tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and landslides. Photo: Supplied / GNS
GNS Science is asking for voluntary redundancies from staff in its 24/7 geohazard monitoring centre, saying forced redundancies could follow.
The Public Service Association understands the cuts would mean the centre could no longer operate around the clock and are part of a government-mandated savings directive.
Last June, Public Services Minister Nicola Willis said she understood change was challenging, but the government had a responsibility to ensure public spending delivered maximum value for money.
"I am really comfortable with asking government agencies to consider, are there ways that you can innovate to deliver the same level of service, while taking less taxpayer dollars to do it."
The public service had increased 34 percent since 2017, but the public had not got bang for buck, she said.
The PSA said the National GeoHazard Monitoring Centre, operated by GNS Science, provided round-the-clock detection of potential tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and landslides, and was set up after the 2016 Kaikoura Earthquake.
Last year, it announced plans to cut a quarter of the 20-person team of geohazard analysts. The PSA understood there were now 18 team members left.
"Cutting the team to the bone means there is a high chance the centre will close at times when a team member falls sick or is unavailable for whatever reason," national secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said. "How is this keeping New Zealanders safe?"
Analysts worked in teams of four, which would fall to three, but there must be at least two on each monitoring shift, raising the risk of the centre closing due to staff absences.
Last September, GNS Science announced plans to axe 59 roles - 10 percent of its workforce.
GNS Science chief executive Chelydra Percy said these voluntary redundancies were part of those cuts already announced in 2024.
"Last year, GNS confirmed workforce changes aimed at improving its financial sustainability. This included changes to the GeoNet programme necessary to sustain prioritised critical infrastructure and services in line with reduced funding.
"GNS is now implementing the change for our National Geohazard Monitoring Centre that was agreed and communicated in detail in 2024. The change being effected has not altered."
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