A Christchurch nurse believes demands for better pay and working conditions were sabotaged by the union.

This comes after the Nurses Organisation voted in favour of the latest DHB offer which included pay increases and the introduction of 500 new full time nurses.

A Christchurch nurse, who wishes to remain anonymous, says a big portion of members are disappointed how NZNO negotiated the deal - and he doesn't believe they were well represented.

"A lot of energy, there's a lot of desire for the members to strike, and they presented offers to us which we didn't really want in the first place."

He believes there'll be a demand for an upheaval of leadership in the nurses' union.

The nurse also doubts the new pay packet will tempt older nurses to stay on.

He says it's more attractive for new graduates, but between conditions and pay, nursing isn't worthwhile to stick out for nurses further down the track.

"Just with how challenging the shift patterns are, working night shift and afternoon shift, it takes a toll on your family life and it takes a toll on your body and your health, and it's not being met with great pay."

He says it is a tough profession, and he was recently assaulted by a patient.

He says there will be mixed feelings over the accepted pay packet.

"There's not much pull to stay in nursing. The conditions, tough hours, and the compensation is just not great for what you do. Who likes being punched in the face?"