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New Zealand:<\/strong> In one of the largest strikes in the nation’s history, nearly 100,000 nurses, teachers, and public sector workers across New Zealand walked off the job on Thursday. The massive industrial action was aimed at pressuring the government to ensure better investment and resources in the country’s health and education services.<\/p>\n The strike involved over 60,000 school teachers, 40,000 nurses and medical specialists, and 15,000 public service employees. Despite severe weather conditions that led to cancellations in Wellington and other regions, thousands of people joined rallies nationwide, demanding greater investment in education and healthcare.<\/p>\n Voices from the Frontlines-\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>Professionals shared the dire realities that led to the strike:<\/p>\n Nurse Bex Kelsy, at an Auckland rally, stated, \u201cPatients shouldn’t have to be harmed or die before conditions improve. We want the government to invest in our community fabric, not cut it.\u201d<\/p>\n Teacher Paul Stevens highlighted a growing exodus, saying, \u201cTeachers are leaving their beloved profession and the country because they feel undervalued.\u201d<\/p>\n Nurse Noreen McCallan emphasized the staffing crisis: \u201cThe staff shortage has become so severe that patients aren’t getting timely help. It’s exhausting and distressing for us.\u201d<\/p>\n Teacher Liam Rutherford called for substantial change, noting, \u201cEducation needs serious investment, tinkering around the edges won’t work. The current government offer won’t retain new teachers, and experienced teachers are leaving the country.\u201d<\/p>\n