In addition to advice and representation, the RMTU actively promotes the general welfare of union members and their families and union membership gives you access to:

Ernest William File Scholarship

The Ernest William File Scholarship was established in 1978 by members of the Locomotive Engineers Association as a tribute to Ernest William File, the retiring General Secretary of the Association. The Scholarship was continued and expanded by the Combined Union of Railway Employees and the Rail and Maritime Transport Union has continued to support the scholarship on the same basis as in the past.

The scholarship is open to male or female applicants in two groups, those who are the children of a Locomotive Engineer and those who are the children of other railway/port employees if their parent is a member of the Rail & Maritime Transport Union at the time the application for the scholarship is made. 

The scholarship is tenable for a maximum period of three years at any University/Tertiary Institution in New Zealand, by a scholar who is undertaking full time study for his or her first degree/qualification and the value of the scholarship is $1,500 a third of which shall be applied in each of the three years during which the scholarship is tenable. 

Written applications for the Scholarship may be made on the application form attached to this circular and should include details of previous scholastic achievement, career intentions, the names and addresses of two persons for reference purposes and they should be sent to the address below before 31 January. 

The General Secretary

Rail & Maritime Transport Union

P.O. Box 1103

WELLINGTON 6140

Click here to download the application form.

Holiday Housing:

RMTU members have access to a network of motel standard holiday units throughout New Zealand at such locations as Paihia, Auckland, Taupo, Rotorua, Wellington, Nelson, Hanmer, Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown.

Health Benefits:

The RMTU has negotiated health assurance arrangements for most union members through collective employment agreements and other arrangements. A union health scheme, UNIMED, is available for all RMTU members.

Death Benefits:

A benefit of $1000 is payable by the RMTU on the death of a current member and $500 on the death of a current member's spouse.

RMTU members are eligible for membership of the PSIS which offers travel, financial and other services.

Superannuation:

The RMTU strongly promotes superannuation and has jointly established with industry employers superannuation schemes for union members in ports and rail.

Legal And Consultancy Services:

The RMTU retains lawyers and consultants able to provide advice on issues affecting union members. Test cases are taken where necessary.

Representation To Government:

The RMTU makes representation to Government, both directly and through the NZ Council of Trade Unions, on matters affecting the economic and social well-being of members and their families, and on transport industry issues.

Welfare Services:

The RMTU is involved in employee assistance programmes with many employers. Officials will also help you with personal problems where they can.