A new report shows it'll take more than a century for Pasifika women to achieve pay parity unless New Zealand changes now.
The Human Rights Commission is launching an inquiry after researchers found Pasifika women earnt a staggering amount less than Pakeha men.
Race Relations Commissioner Meng Foon is adamant Pacific people should be paid the same as everyone else.
But a Human Rights Commission report out on Monday says equal isn't happening - pay disparity and discrimination is. And a union delegate says it's not good enough.
"I remember the first time I saw it I literally cried because I can see my daughter there, I can see the hindrance to advancements of opportunities for her," says PSA union delegate Fuimaono Jennifer Laulala.
The report lays bare how Pacific people are being severely undervalued and the inquiry announced on Monday will ask why.
In the public sector the pay gap between Pakeha men and Pacific women is 27 percent and at the current rate of progress it'll take 120 years to reach pay equity.
"I live in south Auckland where poverty is in my face. We can't wait 120 years," says Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Saunoamaali'i Dr Karanina Sumeo.
Tongan Labour List MP Anahila Kanongata'a Suisuiki says she'll be taking the findings to the top level.
"I am certain that the Minister of Finance, in his conversations about being evidence-based, will look at this in that line to inform his decision," she says.
But Fuimaono Jennifer Laulala wants more than talk for her daughter, Glory.
"I've had enough korero at my dinner table, I've had enough time, huis, meetings about it. It's about time to put actions behind their promises."
So that everyone gets the same pay for the same work.
