One NZ asks employees to volunteer for redundancy: reports

Telecommunications firm One NZ has confirmed the reports that it is asking employees to volunteer for redundancy.

Matt Flood, One NZ spokesperson, told Radio New Zealand that the organisation has joined many others that are "offering or considering voluntary redundancy schemes."

"We are offering a strong redundancy package for those who choose to take it and are committed to supporting our team through this process," Flood told the news outlet.

According to Flood, the organisation has reduced operational costs and implemented AI tools to help serve customers amid a tough economic environment.

Flood's remarks confirm the email seen and previously reported by Stuff that was asking employees to volunteer for redundancy.

Recent expensive moves

The request came at a time when the company is moving offices and sponsoring a 30,000-seat roofed arena that will be named after it and is set for an April 2026 opening, according to reports.

One NZ addressed these expenses despite limited salary increases to employees and offers of voluntary redundancy.

"Our Auckland office move is based on a long-term plan and pay-off period. If we stayed at Smales Farm, we would need to invest into that building instead, to ensure the office is fit for purpose," the organisation said in the email quoted by Stuff.

"The One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch is a 10-year sponsorship deal that we need to start paying for in 2026, and we will be making efficiencies in our marketing budget to accommodate it."

According to One NZ, there are "many competing priorities at play." This includes winning and retaining customers while also considering how to maintain cost discipline.

"This means we will continue to do things like new advertising campaigns and invest into our mobile and fibre networks, while also needing to reduce operational costs," it said in the reported email.