A warning wait times may be longer than usual as some border operations staff take strike action

Unionised border workers are joining other colleagues at the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment in a strike through to January 20 - over a pay offer.

Employees won't do any work before or after their paid shifts - and are taking breaks at the same time.

Immigration NZ chief operating officer Stephen Vaughan says there are plans to minimise the impact of industrial action, but occasionally wait times may be longer than normal.

MBIE plans to continue conversations with the Public Service Association in January.