UPDATED 12.52PM: Under the shadow of a giant inflatable rat, around 60 protesters have gathered in downtown Auckland to protest fast food giant McDonald's continued use of zero-hour contracts.

McDonald's workers around the country are on strike, including Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.

McDonald's says none of its burger outlets will be closed today despite some workers taking a stand, saying only around 12 percent of workers are union members.

Last night, Burger King offered to do away with zero-hour contracts and introduce secure rosters for staff.

Unite Union spokesman Mike Treen says they've withdrawn today's planned strike action at Burger King following the offer last evening.

"I think what tipped the hat is the huge amount of public support and a huge number of messages that have been given to these companies that in New Zealand in the twenty-first century these type of agreements are unfair and shouldn't exist."

"It's enough of an offer to allow us to withdraw the strike notices and have some discussions with them over the next few days to see if we can finalise the settlement with that company."

Treen says protest action will be taken around the country over the break down in talks for moving away from zero-hour contracts

"In Auckland, they'll be going on strike at different stores around the city, and then meeting in the central city. Similarly in Wellington, Palmerston North, Christchurch, and Dunedin."

"They'll be striking at different stores but gathering at a central point to rally and make their voices heard."

The Labour Party's labour spokesman Iain Lees-Galloway claims no one is prepared to defend the use of zero-hour contracts.

"I think this is a clear indication that good employers do not use zero-hour contracts, and the next step we should take is to eradicate them our employment law altogether."

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Woodhouse has already said he is keen to see some of the harshest contracts outlawed.

"Casual [agreements] are where neither party has an obligation to say yes or no to the work. Now, generally there's a good working relationship where you get a good roster in advance and know how many hours you are likely to be working in a week - it suits people like university students.

"The part of casual agreements that I don't like is that unbalanced obligation where the employer says, 'You stand by, I'll tell you when to work.'"