A month-long period of workplace action by Department of Conservation union members over pay has resulted in the department increasing its offer.
Public Service Association (PSA) national Doc organiser Chris Ollington said the action caused enough problems that it forced the department's hand.
He would not go into specifics about the offer as a vote by members would be held next week on whether to accept it.
''Action has resulted in Doc increasing its offer,'' he said, and members ''have to decide whether it's good enough''.
Last month the PSA described a pay increase offer by the department of 0.4% as ''insulting'' and a ''joke''. The PSA had asked for a 3% increase.
The action ensued, which meant union employees would work only the hours they were paid, would take breaks they were entitled to and would not answer calls or emails outside work hours.
They would not be available on call or on standby.
The action was discontinued on November 25. The result of the vote would be known after December 16. Doc said talks were continuing and would not comment.
