The NDU has a notable history as a militant union, thanks to its industrial strategy of strike action and longtime leader Bill (Gordon Harold) Andersen.

The NDU had a membership of more than 20,000 and was affiliated with the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions.

It was also affiliated to various international federations through its four sectors; Retail & Entertainment, Transport Energy Stores, Textile Clothing Baking and the Wood Sector.

The union was involved, along with the EPMU, in the high-profile 2006 Progressive Enterprises dispute, where union members were locked out after strike action.

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