Wellington bus services returned to normal today after yesterday's lockout of drivers in an increasingly ugly pay dispute.
Enough progress was made in talks yesterday between GO Wellington and the Tramways Union to allow the lockout to be lifted and services resumed.
However, the dispute is far from over and further industrial action has not been ruled out if negotiations, due to resume today, fail.
Drivers staged a one hour strike during Wednesday morning's rush hour after being unable to negotiate what they considered a fair wage.
But the company struck back with yesterday's lockout of unionised staff, forcing commuters to find alternative ways of getting in and out of the city.
The predicted chaos on the roads did not eventuate as many people took advantage of balmy spring conditions to walk and cycle to work.
"We are delighted to return to the negotiating table as we believe this is the appropriate place to resolve this issue," GO Wellington general manager Bruce Kenyon said.
Union secretary Kevin O'Sullivan said the lifting of the lockout was welcome, but the push for better wages would continue.
"Unless GO Wellington is willing to offer a fair deal to our members we can't rule out further disruptions."
NZPA
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