Health New Zealand says it's disappointed senior doctors are planning a 48-hour strike later this month

Members of the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists are planning the two-day strike on the 23rd and 24th of September.

Health NZ Chief Executive Dr Dale Bramley says they're concerned at the decision as it will delay care for thousands of patients.

He says they've applied for urgent mediation to avoid the strike, and are committed to reaching a fair and reasonable settlement.