Workers First Union organiser Marcus Coverdale says the earlier date came as a surprise to workers and delegates. Some Northland Mill workers have taken voluntary redundancy, while others have transferred to shifts at the nearby Triboard Mill, which remains open. “Some of the older Triboard workers were happy to take redundancy now and open up opportunities for younger workers from the Northalnd Mill, which they were really grateful for,” said Mr Coverdale. Juken NZ is planning to hold an employment transition event with local agencies and employers to support affected workers. Workers First Union acknowledges the work local agencies, training providers, and government agencies have done to support workers through the transition.