The operator of Tiwai Point aluminium smelter near Bluff has confirmed redundancies of up to a further 65 staff will go ahead from its 800 personnel.
More than a year ago, Tiwai announced plans to reduce staff numbers by more than 100 over a five-year period through natural attrition. So far, 35 have gone but the five-year proposal was brought forward in August.
General manager, Ryan Cavanagh, said yesterday consultation had been completed with staff.
"Due to deteriorating economic conditions, the smelter will now complete the organisational restructure by the end of November," he said.
Australian mining giant Rio Tinto owns 79.4% of the smelter, and it is one of several under the umbrella of new company Pacific Aluminum, which Rio is using sell its older plants.
