Truck Driver Dismissed for Refusing COVID-19 Vaccine Wins $29,000 Compensation

By not getting vaccinated, Bashar had breached the terms of his contract, but he argued that his role should not have been covered by the vaccination mandate.

A convoy of trucks and other vehicles sit parked on the streets in front of Parliament during a demonstration against COVID-19 restrictions in Wellington, New Zealand, on Feb. 8, 2022. Marty Melville/AFP via Getty Images

A New Zealand truck driver who was fired from his job for refusing to get a COVID-19 vaccination has been awarded nearly $29,000 (US$17,700) by the Employment Relations Authority for unjustified dismissal.

Wayne Basher was formerly a linehaul driver with Big Chill Distribution Limited based in Hastings in Hawkes Bay. Mr. Basher had worked for the company since 2011 and has been recognised by the company for his efforts as a driver.