That minority group were training to be specialists in areas that had a big shortage of senior doctors – including psychiatry, radiation oncology and public health.
“We think Te Whatu Ora is bonkers, this is madness. Why on earth would you present a paycut to critical specialities?” Powell said.
A cut was also proposed for trainee general practitioners.
The junior doctors who were getting a pay rise did not want to see anyone left behind – particularly in vital services, Powell said.
“I’m really proud of them. They’re making a stand to say ‘No, it’s not okay to have these registrars take a pay cut which will inevitably impact on the number of specialists we will have have in those areas. And, there are patients that need them and we have to stand up for them just as much’.”
If the strike goes ahead as planned, some doctors would remain on the job to provide critical services, which would also be provided by senior doctors and non-union members, she said.
However, there would still likely be significant disruption for the strike period which will run for 24 hours from 7am on 7 May.
Mediation was scheduled for next week so there was hope the strike could be avoided, although Te Whatu Ora would have to step up, Powell said.
RNZ has sought comment from Te Whatu Ora.
RNZ