New Zealand Institute of Medical Laboratory Science immediate past-president Terry Taylor said there was also some good news — Awanui and Apex union representatives would be back at the negotiation table on November 15.
It would need to be proper negotiation, he said.
There had been "no sign of agreement" since staff began strike action in July, picketing in response to the offer of a 5% pay rise across the board.
Apex union stated it wanted a 23.5% average pay rise for scientists, technicians and phlebotomists.
Yesterday, medical laboratory staff worked half shifts and services were reduced in the last of several days of strike action this week and last week.
Collection centres were closed in most Southern locations yesterday, although ward rounds were still carried out at Dunedin and Southland hospitals in the morning.
It was a very difficult situation for both union and non union staff, who had been undervalued for years, Mr Taylor said.
Their work underpinned the public health system, yet was carried out by a private company.
Staff were at a disadvantage compared to health workers employed by Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, who were paid more.
Without better pay, the future of the service was in trouble, he said.
"We will not accept second best."
