Source: United Fire Brigades’ Association
Some of New Zealand’s firefighters will put their precision, judgment and nerves to the test in Feilding this weekend, as they compete in the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) National Drivers Challenge.
Held at Chris Amon Circuit, Manfeild Park on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 August, the competition showcases the exceptional driving skills required to safely operate a fire appliance weighing up to 12 tonnes.
Over two days, competitors will complete a theory assessment, a pre-drive, and 11 practical driving challenges designed to replicate the split-second decisions and precise manoeuvres required on New Zealand roads.
From reversing into tight spaces and parallel parking to navigating shrinking chicanes, estimating clearances, lane changes, emergency braking and precision driving, every exercise tests the skill, concentration and control needed to position a fire appliance safely and accurately when responding to an emergency.
UFBA Chief Executive Bill Butzbach says the challenge is about much more than competition.
“Most competitors are volunteer firefighters, who make up 86 percent of Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s frontline workforce. Our Drivers Challenge provides an invaluable opportunity to practise and refine the specialist skills that help firefighters respond safely and effectively when their communities need them most.
“For many people, this will be the first opportunity to see just how much skill, patience and precision is required to drive a fire appliance. It’s an impressive display of professionalism that often goes unnoticed.
“Driving a fire appliance isn’t like driving a truck or a large vehicle. Firefighter drivers must manoeuvre a 12-tonne vehicle through traffic, narrow streets and challenging environments while keeping their crew, other road users and the public safe.”
Public welcome
The public is encouraged to attend and watch the action from the spectator areas throughout both days.
Whether you’re interested in emergency services, heavy vehicles or simply want to see incredible driving skill on display, the event offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most demanding roles within the fire service.
Event Details
UFBA National Drivers Challenge 2026
Date: Friday 7 – Saturday 8 August 2026
Venue: Chris Amon Circuit, Manfeild Park, Feilding
Time: Approximately 9am – 3.00pm daily
About the UFBA
For over 140 years the United Fire Brigades’ Association has been the leading association representing firefighters in New Zealand. Today our services support c.14,000 firefighters throughout the fire and emergency services sector by providing advocacy, skills-based challenges, workshops, and service honours.
For more information visit www.ufba.org.nz