First Responders – LiveNews.co.nz https://livenews.co.nz MIL-OSI: Data > Intelligence > News Wed, 16 Sep 2026 04:31:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.4 https://livenews.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/cropped-MIL-logo-1-1-32x32.png First Responders – LiveNews.co.nz https://livenews.co.nz 32 32 Fire and Emergency accepts fleet inquiry findings and apologises for shortcomings https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/fire-and-emergency-accepts-fleet-inquiry-findings-and-apologises-for-shortcomings/ Wed, 16 Sep 2026 04:31:54 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/fire-and-emergency-accepts-fleet-inquiry-findings-and-apologises-for-shortcomings/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has acknowledged significant shortcomings identified by the Governance and Administration Committee’s inquiry into fleet management and is committed to transparent action in response.

The Committee’s report, released today, follows evidence and hearings examining the condition and management of the fleet, procurement, the introduction of appliances into service and the accuracy of previous responses provided to the Committee.

Fire and Emergency accepts the findings of the report and acknowledges its recommendations.

Board Chair Raveen Jaduram says Fire and Emergency accepts the organisation did not perform to a high enough standard in several important areas.

“The report identifies unacceptable delays and weaknesses in setting procurement requirements, contract management and governance oversight.”

“Firefighters and communities are entitled to expect better. We apologise for the shortcomings and for the frustration and concerns this has caused.”

“The Board accepts that previous oversight of fleet strategy, major procurement and delivery did not meet the standard required. The Board and senior management are accountable for ensuring the lessons from this inquiry result in lasting change.”

“Since coming into the role at the end of June I have made my expectations clear. Fire and Emergency is introducing several initiatives to strengthen fleet procurement, reporting and management practices including clearer accountability, stronger oversight of delivery and risk, and more transparent reporting to the Board on planned delivery dates, performance against those dates, and significant issues requiring attention.”

“Fire and Emergency also apologises for the inaccurate and untimely information provided to the Committee.

“The MAN/Angloco Type 3 programme has taken far too long, and we accept responsibility for shortcomings in its planning and delivery. Appliances will enter service as soon as they are ready to be deployed. We will not compromise firefighter safety or operational readiness,” Raveen Jaduram says.

“I also want to acknowledge the report’s conclusion recognising the thousands of dedicated firefighters and Fire and Emergency staff across New Zealand who are dedicated to serving our communities. I want to reassure the public we remain focused on keeping our communities safe,” Raveen Jaduram says.

MIL OSI

]]> Insurers call for overhaul of outdated FENZ funding model https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/insurers-call-for-overhaul-of-outdated-fenz-funding-model/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 23:22:09 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/insurers-call-for-overhaul-of-outdated-fenz-funding-model/ Read more]]>

Source: Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihua o Aotearoa

The Insurance Council of New Zealand | Te Kāhui Inihua o Aotearoa (ICNZ) is calling on the Government to replace the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) levy on insurance policies, saying the current system is outdated, not fit-for-purpose, and unnecessarily adds to the cost of insurance for households and businesses.

In a submission to the Government’s review of FENZ funding, ICNZ states emergency services should no longer be funded primarily through levies collected on insurance policies.

ICNZ Chief Executive Kris Faafoi says ICNZ strongly supports a well-funded FENZ and the work its people do every day but believes it is time to modernise how the service is funded.

“The current funding system reflects a time when fire services were closely linked to fire insurance, but that’s no longer the reality.

“FENZ today responds to a wide range of emergencies including vehicle accidents, medical events and civil defence emergencies. Everyone benefits from having a strong and effective emergency service.

“The key issue is whether the current funding model remains the best way to ensure FENZ is sustainably and fairly funded.

“Insured households and businesses bear most of the cost through the levy, despite the benefits of FENZ being shared across the community. That is becoming increasingly difficult to justify.”

ICNZ says government taxes and levies account for around 40% of a typical home insurance premium, with the FENZ levy making up about 5%. Across all insurance products subject to the levy, it accounts for approximately 9% of premiums.

“The collection and administration of the levy imposes significant compliance costs on insurers, which are ultimately passed on to consumers,” says Kris Faafoi.

ICNZ has recommended FENZ be funded through a broader and more equitable approach, such as general taxation or property and vehicle-based levies, reflecting the public good nature of the services it provides.

“The current approach is inequitable because people with similar assets can pay very different levy amounts depending on the insurance cover they choose, while those who are uninsured contribute nothing towards funding the service.”

The submission notes most Australian states and many comparable overseas jurisdictions have moved away from insurance-based fire service levies, instead funding emergency services through general taxation, local government funding or property-based levies.

“For many years there have been calls for a fairer and simpler approach to funding FENZ. The current review presents an excellent opportunity to create a funding model that better reflects the services FENZ provides today and delivers a more sustainable funding framework into the future,” says Kris Faafoi.

“We believe the time has come to move beyond an insurance-based levy and adopt a funding model that shares the cost of emergency services more fairly across the community.”

MIL OSI

]]> Fire and Emergency welcomes home third contingent from North American wildfires https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/fire-and-emergency-welcomes-home-third-contingent-from-north-american-wildfires/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 22:32:11 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/16/fire-and-emergency-welcomes-home-third-contingent-from-north-american-wildfires/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

New Zealand has today welcomed home the final contingent of personnel deployed to North America to assist with wildfire response efforts.

Since July, Fire and Emergency New Zealand has led three contingents of firefighters and incident management specialists to the United States and Canada. The “Bravo deployment” who returned today was the largest of the three, comprising 57 people who worked on several large fires, mostly in Washington State.

In all, 68 Kiwis have been deployed in the last eight weeks as part of joint Australia-New Zealand contingents under our long-standing mutual assistance arrangements with the USA and Canada.

The NZ Defence Force, Department of Conservation and the forestry industry have all contributed personnel alongside Fire and Emergency’s own volunteers and paid staff.

Fire and Emergency National Commander Megan Stiffler says that sending our people overseas to help in time of need is more than just being a good global citizen. “The experience that they have gained in complex, large scale firefighting and incident management will be of huge benefit to our own capability.”

Fire and Emergency is preparing for a heightened risk of wildfire over the coming months, due to the Super El Niño predicted to affect the southern hemisphere.

“We are readying ourselves for the likelihood of challenging operating conditions across New Zealand,” Megan Stiffler says. “This is likely to include elevated wildfire risk, periods of severe weather, prolonged dry conditions in many areas, and increased potential for significant incidents requiring sustained operational response.”

MIL OSI

]]> Fire and Emergency reminds public to be extra careful when strike action takes place https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/15/fire-and-emergency-reminds-public-to-be-extra-careful-when-strike-action-takes-place/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 05:36:58 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/15/fire-and-emergency-reminds-public-to-be-extra-careful-when-strike-action-takes-place/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is warning the public that the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) will be striking tomorrow, Wednesday 16 September, between 12pm and 1pm.

“I want to reassure the public that all 111 calls will be received and responded to during the strike period,” Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler says.

“However, our response times will be delayed in impacted areas as volunteer crews will be responding from the next closest location. So, we are asking the public to remain extra careful.

“Our advice remains the same. If there is a fire, get out early, stay out, then call 111.”

During the one-hour strikes, Fire and Emergency will prioritise emergencies and may not attend less serious incidents, such as private fire alarms where there is no sign of fire, small rubbish fires, traffic-management assistance, and animal rescues.

In addition, Fire and Emergency has established a process with Hato Hone St John and Wellington Free Ambulance for responding to medical events in impacted areas.

“We remain focused on achieving a fair and sustainable settlement with the NZPFU so we can continue working to keep communities safe,” Megan Stiffler says.

MIL OSI

]]> King’s Birthday Honours recipients recognised – Fire and Emergency NZ https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/15/kings-birthday-honours-recipients-recognised-fire-and-emergency-nz/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 05:36:54 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/15/kings-birthday-honours-recipients-recognised-fire-and-emergency-nz/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Four Fire and Emergency New Zealand personnel from Auckland, Dunedin, Ōmokoroa, and Richmond were presented with King’s Birthday Honours by the Governor-General, the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, at an investiture ceremony at Government House in Wellington today.

Fire and Emergency Board Chair Raveen Jaduram was pleased to be part of the Fire and Emergency Royal Honours luncheon, held at Parliament following the investiture ceremony, celebrating the recipients and their well-deserved recognition.

“Our people being honoured today have made outstanding contributions across Fire and Emergency, as well as fostering strong connections within their communities.”

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements. We thank them for the lasting contribution they have made in service to Fire and Emergency and to Aotearoa New Zealand. Their communities are stronger because of their work.”

An additional two King’s Service Medal recipients, Ralph Pitcher and Graeme Kates, will be attending ceremonies to receive their awards later in September and October.

Congratulations to the recipients:

Mr Esitone (Leota Pauga Esitone) PAUGA, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Leota Pauga Esitone Pauga has served for more than 40 years with Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the preceding New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS).

Mr Pauga became a career firefighter in 1981 and served until retirement in 2025. He was an operational firefighter for 32 years before attaining the role of Assistant Commander in 2013 and Area Commander in 2015, latterly holding roles with Fire and Emergency national headquarters. He co-founded Afi Pasefika (Pacific Fire) in 1996, an initiative which has become an important part of the People Led Network and Pacific representation and advocacy within Fire and Emergency. Under his guidance Afi Pasefika has grown into a national network of career and volunteer firefighters, support personnel, and executive officers. The network works closely with Pacific communities to deliver fire safety messages, foster recruitment, and provide career advice for Pacific personnel. He was the Fire and Emergency representative on the Te Kiwi Māia Advisory Group from 2021 to 2025. His leadership has enabled firefighters and their family to access specialised wellness and recovery support. He has strengthened the relationship between Fire and Emergency and the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority, establishing collaborative initiatives to enhance operational capability. Mr Pauga led a team of firefighters to Samoa as part of New Zealand’s contribution to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024.

Ms Michele Margot POOLE, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Ms Michele Poole has contributed to emergency responses across New Zealand for more than 30 years.

Ms Poole is currently a Senior Regional Communications and Engagement Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. She is a member of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Emergency Management Assistance Team, the Fire and Emergency Urban Search and Rescue Command and Technical Support team, and the Maritime New Zealand National Oil Spill Response team. She represents Fire and Emergency on the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council Public Information and Warnings Group. She has developed and implemented Fire and Emergency’s Emergency Strategic Communications capability. She trains and supports Public Information Management around New Zealand and has built capability in emergency communication across the public communications sector and in local government. She was instrumental in establishing the New Zealand chapter of Emergency Media and Public Affairs (EMPA) and chaired the New Zealand EMPA Conference from 2014 to 2021. She has contributed to some of New Zealand’s most significant emergency responses including the 2011 Christchurch and 2016 Kaikōura earthquakes, Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. She has been deployed to major emergency responses in New South Wales and Queensland in Australia. For her contributions to emergency communications, Ms Poole was made a Fellow of EMPA.

Mr Ian John BLUNT, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.

Chief Fire Officer Ian Blunt has contributed more than 40 years to community service and leadership, primarily through Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Mr Blunt joined Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1984, progressing from Station Officer in 1988 to current Chief Fire Officer since 2002. He has played a key role in regional emergency preparedness and inter-agency cooperation by forging effective partnerships between Fire and Emergency New Zealand, St John, Coastguard, and local Bay of Plenty organisations. In 2015, he pioneered the establishment of New Zealand’s first dedicated Medical First Response Unit staffed solely by medical responders, separate from the firefighting team. This innovation now supports approximately 300 calls annually and is recognised nationally. He has ensured sustainable funding for the station through community and corporate partnerships, enabling the acquisition of vehicles and equipment without requiring members to fundraise. As a long-time member, Chair and Course Superintendent of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club, he has used his own equipment and time to improve the grounds and infrastructure. He has been involved with the Ōmokoroa Boat Club since the early 1980s, serving as Commodore and ensuring ongoing emergency response collaboration to enhance community safety. Mr Blunt has been involved in Ōmokoroa Point School fundraising activities as a member of the Parent Teacher Association and through the Fire Brigade.

Mr Edward Keith (Ted) FORD, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the dairy industry.

Mr Ted Ford has served the Appleby community over 36 years as a volunteer firefighter and is a prominent member of the Jersey farming industry.

Mr Ford was an inaugural member of the Appleby Volunteer Rural Fire Force in 1988 and was instrumental in its transition to a Fire and Emergency New Zealand Volunteer Fire Brigade in 2017. He worked as a training coordinator and vehicle and equipment coordinator. He has had a long involvement with the Nelson Agricultural and Pastoral Association, becoming Vice President in 2018, and President from 2019 to 2021. He continues to serve as a committee member, focusing on the care and maintenance of the Association’s 100-acre park. He has volunteered with local and national Jersey groups and is a Jersey New Zealand Regional Ambassador for the Upper South Island. He was a committee member for the planning and presentation of the Top of the South New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. He was Chair for the Top of the South Agricultural Industry Training Organisation and offered training on his farm to develop cadets’ practical and theoretical farming knowledge. Mr Ford was Chair of the Appleby School Committee from 1985 to 1987 and continues to support the school with educational farming visits.

Mr Graeme Lawrence KATES awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to conservation and the community.

Mr Graeme Kates has played a significant role in the protection of native biodiversity in the Arthur’s Pass region for more than 31 years.

In 2003, Mr Kates privately funded extensive stoat and rat traps within the Bealey Valley, a conservation initiative which led to the foundation of the Arthurs Pass Wildlife Trust (APWT). With the APWT, he undertook initial work to protect the Great Spotted Kiwi in the Arthur’s Pass National Park, where his subsequent research and data collection led to improved knowledge of the species. He helped install 106 kilometres of trap line and coordinates the volunteers that service them, resulting in over eight thousand predator species caught within the Arthur’s Pass National Park. He created and maintains a website that updates the public on track and mountain conditions, weather stations and webcams within Arthur’s Pass National Park. As an experienced mountaineer, he wrote ‘Arthur’s Pass: A Guide for Mountaineers’, published by the New Zealand Alpine Club. He voluntarily controls invasive weed species and is largely responsible for the eradication of lupins in the Bealey Valley. Mr Kates also volunteered for Arthur’s Pass LandSAR, and served for more than 29 years with the Arthur’s Pass Volunteer Fire Brigade, including five years as Fire Controller and 17 years as Deputy Fire Controller.

Mr Ralph Edward PITCHER awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.

Mr Ralph Pitcher has served the Whangamatā community for more than 60 years.

Mr Pitcher has been a volunteer firefighter since 1965, still actively serving as part of the Whangamatā Fire Brigade. He assisted with major equipment and building changes to the Brigade and has mentored generations of firefighters. He is founding member, President, and committee member of the Moana House retirement home, where he was integral to the completion of the Wilson Wing Hospital, and five low-cost housing cottages for pensioners. He has served for more than 48 years with the Whangamatā Lions Club, including 15 years as President. He served on several committees and manages the Charitable Trust responsible for dispersing funds to community organisations. He is Trustee of Lions Investment Golf Club, committee member of the Williamson Golf Club and was involved in the establishment of Titoki Golf Club. He was a volunteer ambulance officer and later became Chair of St John’s Whangamatā Ambulance Service. He was a committee member of the Whangamatā Club for 15 years. He was President and was founding member of the Whangamatā Sports Centre and Squash Club, contributing significantly towards the Club’s redevelopment. Mr Pitcher volunteers as a Meals on Wheels driver.

MIL OSI

]]> Firefighters make “really good save” in fuel tanker fire https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/firefighters-make-really-good-save-in-fuel-tanker-fire/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 22:02:24 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/firefighters-make-really-good-save-in-fuel-tanker-fire/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

A fire involving a fuel tanker on the Peka Peka Expressway this morning has been contained to the cab of the vehicle and its tractor unit.

Assistant National Commander Bruce Stubbs says that firefighters reached the scene quickly and worked effectively to prevent the fire from spreading and igniting the fuel that the tanker was carrying. “It’s a really good save by our crews,” he says.

Firefighters are still at work dampening down the area and the Peka Peka Expressway remains closed.

MIL OSI

]]> Firefighters working to extinguish fuel tanker fire on the Kapiti Coast https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/firefighters-working-to-extinguish-fuel-tanker-fire-on-the-kapiti-coast/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 22:02:21 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/firefighters-working-to-extinguish-fuel-tanker-fire-on-the-kapiti-coast/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire trucks from multiple brigades are responding to a fuel tanker on fire on the Peka Peka Expressway just south of the Otaki River, on the Kapiti coast.

The first 111 call was received at 5.06am, and the cab of the tanker was well ablaze when the first crews arrived.

As at 6am there are 19 fire trucks, tankers and specialist vehicles at the scene or en route.

The tanker is in the north-bound lane. The Peka Peka expressway is closed from Otaki to Te Horo.

MIL OSI

]]> First Responders – Team returns from deployment to wildfires in Canada https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/first-responders-team-returns-from-deployment-to-wildfires-in-canada/ Tue, 08 Sep 2026 22:02:17 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/09/09/first-responders-team-returns-from-deployment-to-wildfires-in-canada/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has welcomed home the team of incident management specialists who have been supporting Canada’s wildfire response for the last five weeks.

Each of the five Fire and Emergency personnel has been working on different fires in British Columbia, filling roles as Divisional Supervisors, Logistics Section Chief, Safety Officer and Helicopter Coordinator. They have been working on extensive and complex fires as members of Canadian Incident Management Teams.

Our International Liaison Officer has been based in Winnipeg, supporting both New Zealand and Australian personnel in Canada.

The team departed for Canada on 6 August and formed the second contingent that Fire and Emergency has deployed to North America since mid July. The other two deployments have been supporting wildfire responses in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

Fire and Emergency’s National Commander, Megan Stiffler, says that Canada’s firefighting authorities have appreciated New Zealand’s assistance with their challenging wildfire season. There are around 600 active wildfires burning across several states with many still out of control.

“The people who have just returned from Canada have given of their best and we are very proud of the work they have done to protect communities in British Columbia. Each of them was selected for their competence and experience, as well as their ability to fit in to new teams.”

The third group to deploy to North America is working on fires in Utah and Washington State. The 57 firefighters and incident management specialists include personnel from the New Zealand Defence Force, Department of Conservation and the forestry industry as well as Fire and Emergency.

Megan Stiffler says that the experience gained in the three international deployments will enhance New Zealand’s own readiness for the coming fire season, which is forecast to be longer, drier, hotter and windier than normal in many parts of the country due to El Niño.

MIL OSI

]]> Fire and Emergency urges New Zealanders to prepare for elevated wildfire risk this summer https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/31/fire-and-emergency-urges-new-zealanders-to-prepare-for-elevated-wildfire-risk-this-summer/ Mon, 31 Aug 2026 03:37:13 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/31/fire-and-emergency-urges-new-zealanders-to-prepare-for-elevated-wildfire-risk-this-summer/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

As we enter spring, forecasts from Earth Sciences New Zealand and Fire and Emergency New Zealand indicate El Niño conditions are likely to develop and strengthen over the coming months, with some guidance suggesting the event could become one of the stronger El Niño events on record.

Historically, stronger El Niño events have been associated with more frequent westerly winds, warmer temperatures, and below-normal rainfall in eastern parts of both the North and South Islands. However, the timing, severity, and extent of these impacts can vary considerably from one event to another.

Fire and Emergency Deputy Chief Executive Prevention, Stephen Hunt, says Fire and Emergency will continue to monitor conditions, communicate fire risk and provide advice on keeping safe.

“Despite the uncertainty of when and how El Niño will impact on New Zealand, it’s time for Kiwis to start preparing,” Stephen Hunt says.

“There are some simple steps people can take now to reduce wildfire risk around their properties. Clear dead and dry vegetation from around buildings, make sure emergency vehicles can easily access your property, ensure water supplies are available if firefighters need them, and keep spring grass growth under control. These actions can make a real difference if fire threatens your home or community,” he says.

“A fast-moving fire in Wanaka recently showed the speed at which a fire can grow and threaten homes, so we’re also asking people to consider what they will do should a wildfire occur in their community.

“We encourage people to get to know their neighbours, talk with their whānau about what they would do during a wildfire, plan evacuation routes, and prepare essential supplies in case they need to leave quickly. Taking these simple steps now can make a significant difference if conditions deteriorate over summer.”

You can create a wildfire plan for your home and community now using Fire and Emergency’s free tool at checkitsalright.nz/prepare-for-wildfire.

Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler is calling on all New Zealanders to do their part to reduce the risk of fires starting this summer.

“Around 98 percent of wildfires in New Zealand are caused by people and their activities. We urge people to use fire safely and to always check the conditions and fire season status in their area before lighting an outdoor fire. They can do this and find more safety advice at checkitsalright.nz.

And while we’re asking New Zealanders to do their bit, we’re doing ours. Fire and Emergency is ensuring we’re operationally ready to protect communities this summer.

“We are working hard preparing for a potentially busy upcoming season by reviewing operational readiness, identifying emerging risk areas early, and working closely with local authorities, iwi, land managers, industry partners, communities and partner agencies from Department of Conservation, New Zealand Defence Force and the forestry sector.

“Our national coordination centre is ready to provide oversight during periods of heightened fire risk, and we can move personnel, appliances, and specialist resources between districts, including pre-positioning them in higher-risk areas if the conditions call for that.

“Over the past few months Fire and Emergency has provided personnel to support responses to wildfires across North America, a deployment which will help bring valuable knowledge and experience back for the upcoming season,” Megan Stiffler says.

MIL OSI

]]> Fire and Emergency welcomes home first deployment from North American wildfires https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/29/fire-and-emergency-welcomes-home-first-deployment-from-north-american-wildfires/ Sat, 29 Aug 2026 05:06:53 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/29/fire-and-emergency-welcomes-home-first-deployment-from-north-american-wildfires/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

The first contingent of New Zealanders deployed to North America to help manage wildfires has returned home today (Saturday).

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has sent three deployments totalling 68 people overseas in the last month. The first team of five left New Zealand for the United States on 24 July and has been working on fires in Oregon and Washington State, filling specialist roles in incident management teams.

Partner agencies have contributed to each of these deployments, with the forestry industry, Department of Conservation and New Zealand Defence Force each providing people alongside Fire and Emergency’s volunteers and paid personnel.

Fire and Emergency’s Deputy National Commander, Megan Stiffler, says that the team’s work has been greatly appreciated by the US firefighting authorities that requested New Zealand assistance with their challenging wildfire season.

“Our people have a well-earned reputation for being highly competent and totally committed to the job. The people we select for international deployment not only lend their skills and experience to the host country, they bring the flexibility to slot in easily to new teams and the willingness to give their utmost every day.”

Firefighting deployments to North America last five weeks, including travel. Each team has a period of induction and training in local procedures before beginning two fourteen-day rotations on duty, with a three-day rest period between rotations.

Megan Stiffler says that the experience of working on large-scale, complex wildfires will enhance New Zealand’s own readiness for the coming fire season, which is predicted to be longer, drier, hotter and windier than in recent years due to El Niño.

The second deployment, comprising six people, left New Zealand for Canada on 6 August and are been supporting Canada’s wildfire response in British Columbia. The third is made up of 57 firefighters and incident management specialists, who are currently working on fires in Utah and Washington State.

MIL OSI

]]> Moana Fire Station upgrade delivers better facilities and improved resilience https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/28/moana-fire-station-upgrade-delivers-better-facilities-and-improved-resilience/ Fri, 28 Aug 2026 02:07:02 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/28/moana-fire-station-upgrade-delivers-better-facilities-and-improved-resilience/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Moana’s volunteer firefighters and supporters will be in celebration mode when their upgraded fire station is officially opened tomorrow (29 August).

The upgrades provide the brigade with improved facilities in a seismically sound building that also accommodates both their fire truck and tanker for the first time.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has invested approximately $1.8m in the upgrade and associated work.

The station required seismic strengthening and it was too small to house both fire truck and tanker, so the tanker was in a temporary tent- type covered area beside the station.

Assistant District Commander Atila de Oliveira says it is important for the brigade to have a resilient and fit-for-purpose facility to operate from.

“This is a beautiful part of the country that also reckons with multiple natural hazards because of our geography and climate,” Atila de Oliveira says.

“The Moana brigade is better equipped to serve the Lake Brunner community as a result of the station upgrade.”

Key components of the upgrade include:

  • Rebuilt appliance bays that will house both the fire truck and tanker
  • Improved facilities including upgraded personal protection equipment (PPE) storage, and ablutions
  • Electrical, data and fire alarm upgrades
  • Structural strengthening to improve resilience
  • Fallback emergency generator

The 20 members of the brigade respond to an average of 54 incidents a year, including fires, road traffic incidents, medical emergencies and weather events. They are a Medical Co-Response brigade, supporting Hato Hone St John.

The station was built shortly after the brigade was established in 1974, with a small extension added in 2007.

The Moana township has a permanent population of around 100 residents, but swells to an estimated 3000 people during the summer.

MIL OSI

]]> NZPFU rejects options to progress settlement of collective agreement negotiations https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/21/nzpfu-rejects-options-to-progress-settlement-of-collective-agreement-negotiations/ Thu, 20 Aug 2026 23:56:55 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/21/nzpfu-rejects-options-to-progress-settlement-of-collective-agreement-negotiations/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency is disappointed the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) has rejected its request to explore arbitration as a way to bring their long-running collective agreement negotiations to a conclusion.

“We have been working in good faith, utilising all of the options available under the Employment Relations Act to try and reach a sustainable settlement with the NZPFU,” Deputy Chief Executive People Janine Hearn says.

“Most recently, we’ve been in a facilitation process through the Employment Relations Authority to try to resolve the dispute. As part of that process, the independent facilitator again asked each party to exchange its current proposal for settlement after a prior refusal by the NZPFU. Fire and Emergency agreed to do so, but the NZPFU, once again, did not.

“After a long period of bargaining, that step would have allowed both parties to put forward fair and reasonable proposals that could help settle the dispute. The NZPFU’s stance is extremely disappointing and again delays a sustainable settlement that would mean we can get on with keeping our communities safe.

“Unfortunately, a significant gap remains between us. Our most recent offer would have delivered a 2.2 percent increase from 1 December 2025 and a 2.2 percent from 1 January 2027 over a 24-month term to the end of November 2027. This was at a cost of $50 million over four years and compares favourably with other public sector settlements.

“By comparison, the NZPFU’s settlement proposal was for more than $130 million over the same period. That is not financially realistic at a time when we also have to keep investing in the trucks and equipment our people need to do their jobs safely.

“The ERA has resolved to reconvene facilitation, which we’ve agreed to and will be approaching with an open mind and in good faith to try and reach a settlement.

“The NZPFU’s continued refusal to agree to steps that could progress bargaining only serves to erode the benefits their members will receive from an eventual settlement. The Government’s Workforce Policy Statement is clear that settlements are to avoid backdating any components of adjustments to pay and conditions.

“Arbitration would have involved an independent arbitrator or arbitration panel considering the positions of both parties and making a decision on the matters referred.

“Given the significant gap between the parties, the protracted nature of negotiations, the impact on our team members and the risk to the wider community, we believe we have an obligation to explore every possible option for reaching settlement.

“We were hopeful the NZPFU would agree to discuss this process so we can continue focusing on keeping our communities safe,” Janine Hearn says.

MIL OSI

]]> First Responders – Six-person team to assist with wildfire response in Canada https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/05/first-responders-six-person-team-to-assist-with-wildfire-response-in-canada/ Tue, 04 Aug 2026 23:02:06 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/05/first-responders-six-person-team-to-assist-with-wildfire-response-in-canada/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is deploying six incident management specialists to Canada this week to support the country’s response to extensive wildfires.

The six personnel are part of an Australasian team requested by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre under a long-standing agreement between Canada, the United States of America, Australia and New Zealand to provide mutual assistance with wildfire suppression.

A Liaison Officer left for Winnipeg yesterday and the other five depart tomorrow for Vancouver, where they will be assigned to incident management teams working on fires in British Columbia.

Each is a specialist in aspects of managing large-scale wildfires. Two will be filling Division Commander positions and the others will be stepping into roles as Logistics Chief, Safety Officer and Helicopter Supervisor.

Canada is currently experiencing extreme wildfire activity with 484 active wildfires and over 2 million hectares affected. Our specialist team will provide much needed relief and assistance to the local resources.

This is New Zealand’s second deployment to North America this fire season. Five incident management team members travelled to the United States last month and are working on fires in Idaho. An indicative request has been received from the US for a second contingent and Fire and Emergency is considering availability of personnel in case that request is formalised.

Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler said that Fire and Emergency was able to provide support to other countries without diminishing its capability to respond to any large-scale emergencies at home.

Wildfire deployments to North America take place during the southern winter and by joining with Australia to make up incident management teams, New Zealand’s contribution was proportionate to its resources. Partner agencies including Department of Conservation, NZ Defence Force and the forestry industry also regularly contribute their staff to international wildfire deployments.

“The international agreements we have in place allow us to be a good global citizen and lend support where we can. In return our people bring back valuable experience that enhances New Zealand’s own capability to manage large-scale incidents,” Megan Stiffler said. “Given the predictions for a challenging fire season here, these opportunities to be part of wildfire management in Canada and the US couldn’t be more timely.”

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]]> Precision under pressure: New Zealand’s firefighters to compete in national driving challenge https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/03/precision-under-pressure-new-zealands-firefighters-to-compete-in-national-driving-challenge/ Mon, 03 Aug 2026 05:22:29 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/08/03/precision-under-pressure-new-zealands-firefighters-to-compete-in-national-driving-challenge/ Read more]]>

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

MIL OSI

]]> Employment Disputes – Fire and Emergency urges NZPFU back to the ERA https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/31/employment-disputes-fire-and-emergency-urges-nzpfu-back-to-the-era/ Fri, 31 Jul 2026 05:47:16 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/31/employment-disputes-fire-and-emergency-urges-nzpfu-back-to-the-era/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand remains committed to working with the Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) to achieve a fair and sustainable settlement, Acting Deputy National Commander Ken Cooper says.

“Most recently, the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) proposed both parties exchange their full revised bargaining positions at the same time, to help assess whether further facilitation is likely to assist.

“We agreed to this. The NZPFU did not.

“We continue to urge the NZPFU to call off these reckless strikes and engage with us and the ERA to try and come to a resolution so that their members can get the pay increases they deserve, and we can continue working together to keep communities safe.

“Fire and Emergency’s most recent offer compares favourably with other public sector settlements and would have delivered a 2.2 percent increase from 1 December 2025 and 2.2 percent from 1 January 2027 over a 24-month term to the end of November 2027. This was at a cost of $50m over four years.

“By comparison, the NZPFU’s settlement proposal was for more than $130 million over the same period.

“That is not financially realistic at a time where we also have to keep investing in the trucks and equipment our people need to do their jobs safely.

“In the meantime, we have provided an annual pay adjustment to operational leaders and office staff as per Fire and Emergency’s Remuneration Policy.

“This is their first market rate review increase since 2024. It is not fair to make them wait until the NZPFU comes back to negotiations to settle its agreement before adjusting their pay.

“The offer to the NZPFU included a 2.2 per cent pay rise and a number of other financial elements in addition to the pay rise, which the pay adjustment to operational managers and office staff does not include.”

During the fiftieth strike action today, Friday 31 July, Fire and Emergency received calls for 21 incidents between 12 pm and 1pm. Of the 21 incidents, 17 were in areas impacted by the strike.

Twelve were false alarms. Three were medical events that were attended to by Hato Hone St John, as per contingency planning. One was a motor vehicle collision. One was a small rubbish fire, which was out on arrival of volunteer firefighters.

“Should the NZPFU continue to take strike action, our advice remains the same. If there is a fire, get out early, stay out, then call 111,” Ken Cooper says..

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]]> Employment Issues – Volunteer Firefighters One Step Closer to Fair ACC Cover https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/23/employment-issues-volunteer-firefighters-one-step-closer-to-fair-acc-cover/ Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:24:06 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/23/employment-issues-volunteer-firefighters-one-step-closer-to-fair-acc-cover/ Read more]]>

Source: United Fire Brigades’ Association

The United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) has welcomed Labour MP Kieran McAnulty’s Accident Compensation (Extended Cover for Fire and Emergency New Zealand Personnel) Amendment Bill drawn from the biscuit tin today, describing it as a significant step towards ensuring New Zealand’s volunteer firefighters receive the same ACC protection as their paid colleagues.
The Bill would extend ACC cover for work-related illness and injury to volunteer firefighters, recognising that they face the same operational hazards and long-term health risks as career firefighters.
UFBA Chief Executive Bill Butzbach said the Bill addresses a longstanding inequity.
“This is about fairness. Volunteer firefighters respond to the same emergencies, face the same dangers and are exposed to the same traumatic events and toxic and hazardous substances as paid firefighters. Yet when it comes to ACC coverage for work-related illness and injury, they are not treated equally.”
The UFBA has worked closely with Mr McAnulty during the development of the bill and welcomes the opportunity for Parliament to consider this important change.
Volunteer firefighters make up 86 percent of Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s frontline workforce and respond to thousands of incidents every year, including structure fires, vegetation fires, motor vehicle crashes, hazardous substance incidents, medical emergencies, search and rescue operations, severe weather events and natural disasters.
“To the communities they serve, there is no distinction between a volunteer firefighter and a paid firefighter,” said Mr Butzbach.
“When someone calls 111, they don’t ask whether the firefighters arriving are volunteers or career staff. They expect a professional emergency response, and that’s exactly what they receive.”
Despite undertaking the same core training and carrying out the same operational duties as their paid counterparts, volunteer firefighters are currently excluded from ACC cover for a range of gradual process work-related conditions. These include mental injury arising from traumatic events and cumulative occupational illnesses linked to repeated exposure to hazardous and toxic substances.
Mr Butzbach said the legislation also reflects the changing nature of emergency response in New Zealand.
“As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters and major weather events, volunteers continue to shoulder the majority of New Zealand’s emergency response capability. Their contribution has never been more important.”
The UFBA is encouraging Members of Parliament from across the House to support the Bill.
“This is not a political issue; it’s a matter of equity, recognition and doing what is right for the thousands of New Zealanders who volunteer to protect their communities every day.
“We congratulate Kieran McAnulty on bringing this issue before Parliament and look forward to working with all parties to see this important legislation progress.”

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]]> New Zealand lending firefighting expertise to American wildfire response https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/23/new-zealand-lending-firefighting-expertise-to-american-wildfire-response/ Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:23:48 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/23/new-zealand-lending-firefighting-expertise-to-american-wildfire-response/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Five experienced incident management specialists leave for the United States of America tomorrow (Friday) as part of a joint Australasian contingent supporting America’s response to an intense wildfire season.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is deploying the team to Idaho under longstanding agreements with the USA, Canada and Australia to provide mutual assistance with wildfire suppression.
Four members are Fire and Emergency personnel and the fifth is from the forestry industry. They will be embedded in local incident management teams to perform senior roles: two will be managing helicopter operations bases, one will be a heavy equipment boss and one an operations branch director. The fifth will be in a liaison role representing New Zealand.
Fire and Emergency Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler says New Zealand’s own fire management capability is enhanced by international deployments. They provided an opportunity to gain experience in complex, large-scale, long duration vegetation fires of the kind not seen in New Zealand.
“The team will bring back what they learn and share their knowledge with colleagues here, and our own response capability will benefit from it,” Megan Stiffler says.
“And in return, our team will be sharing their own extensive skills and experience – that cross-pollination of knowledge is priceless.”
New Zealand regularly deploys firefighters and incident management team members to Australia and North America, drawing on personnel from Fire and Emergency and partner agencies including the forestry industry, Department of Conservation and New Zealand Defence Force. This deployment will be the 71st supported by Fire and Emergency and its predecessor organisations. The first deployment to the USA was in 2000 under the auspices of the National Rural Fire Authority.
The five team members heading to Idaho come from Southland, Otago, Auckland and Northland. They will be in the USA for five weeks.

MIL OSI

]]> First Responders – Update on hazardous substances incident in Tuakau https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/21/first-responders-update-on-hazardous-substances-incident-in-tuakau/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 11:01:49 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/21/first-responders-update-on-hazardous-substances-incident-in-tuakau/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters will shortly be demobilising from Tuakau, where Fire and Emergency New Zealand has been responding to a hazardous substances incident tonight.
Assistant District Commander Brad Harvey says firefighters have been flushing the drains, and atmospheric readings now show that the air quality in and around the drains has returned to safe levels.
Residents who were evacuated earlier this evening are able to return home. The advice to other residents to stay inside with doors and windows shut has also been lifted.
The scene will be left in the hands of local water management staff. The nature and source of the substance which prompted the emergency response has not yet been established.
The crews of four fire appliances still on site will be preparing to depart shortly.

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]]> First Responders – Hazardous substances incident in Tuakau https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/21/first-responders-hazardous-substances-incident-in-tuakau/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 08:46:59 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/21/first-responders-hazardous-substances-incident-in-tuakau/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters are responding to a hazardous substances incident in the township of Tuakau, where a large amount of an unknown chemical has entered drains near the water treatment plant. The incident was reported at 4pm today.
Residents have been evacuated from houses in the vicinity of Kowhai St and Matipo Drive. Other people in the area are advised to stay inside with doors and windows closed to avoid possible exposure to fumes. Other members of the public should stay away from the area until further notice.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is obtaining specialist advice from the Queensland Fire Department to assist in identifying the substance and is working with the Waikato District Council and Watercare to develop a plan to flush the drains safely. The nature and origin of the substance is not yet known.

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]]> Fire Safety – Be extra careful when lighting fires this Matariki https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/10/fire-safety-be-extra-careful-when-lighting-fires-this-matariki/ Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:31:48 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/10/fire-safety-be-extra-careful-when-lighting-fires-this-matariki/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand welcomes and honours the appearance of Matariki and Puanga, marking the start of Māori New Year.
Wildfire Manager Tim Mitchell says it’s a time for remembrance, reflection, renewal and bringing whanau together – but it’s also important to remember how to be safe around fire.
“Matariki Mahuika Ahi is the tradition of lighting bonfires on beaches and waterfronts to bring communities together and celebrate Matariki,” Tim Mitchell says.
“This means an increased risk, so we are asking the public to be extra careful when lighting fires this Matariki.
“Despite the wet weather conditions across the country, check the weather forecast for your area before lighting your fire. If it’s windy, do not light a fire.”
Tim Mitchell says people should always choose an appropriate location away from vegetation, structures and other combustible materials and ensure any fire is always supervised.
“Remember, your fire is your responsibility. This includes making sure it remains under control, the safety of everyone attending, and making sure it is cold to touch before leaving the area. Do this by dousing the fire with water.
“Everyone should head to www.checkitsalright.nz and check the current fire season and whether a permit is required before lighting.
“Mānawatia a Matariki however you choose to celebrate with whanau and friends.”
For more advice on lighting bonfires and braziers head to www.checkitsalright.nz.

MIL OSI

]]> First Responders – Driver rescued from floodwaters https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/07/first-responders-driver-rescued-from-floodwaters/ Mon, 06 Jul 2026 23:46:53 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/07/07/first-responders-driver-rescued-from-floodwaters/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s Specialist Water Rescue Teams have rescued a person from a vehicle trapped in floodwaters near Mt Lyford this morning, supported by members of the Waiau Volunteer Fire Brigade.
The incident was reported shortly after 3am and the occupant of the vehicle was rescued about 7am.
The Specialist Water Rescue Team members are now responding to an incident on the Inland Kaikoura Road, where two vehicles were reported to have crashed about 6.40am.
The two specialist teams are firefighters from Canterbury who are trained in water response. They were pre-deployed to Kaikoura yesterday afternoon in anticipation of the forecast heavy rainfall. They will be working in support of the volunteer firefighters from Kaikoura and surrounding brigades.
Fire and Emergency asks people to prioritise their safety and stay off roads that are affected by flooding or slips. Driving through flood waters is dangerous and puts lives at risk – not just for the driver and passengers, but for the first responders who are called to rescue them.

MIL OSI

]]> Fire Safety – Message to landowners: you are responsible for the fires you light https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/26/fire-safety-message-to-landowners-you-are-responsible-for-the-fires-you-light/ Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:41:39 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/26/fire-safety-message-to-landowners-you-are-responsible-for-the-fires-you-light/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Landowners whose unattended burn piles caused a string of vegetation fires across Canterbury last Saturday are being visited by Fire and Emergency New Zealand to ensure they understand their responsibilities for land management fires.
District Commander Dave Stackhouse said that 11 fires escaped and spread quickly in the severe nor-westerly winds. As a result, the district’s firefighters were stretched to levels normally only seen in mid-summer. “I am very disappointed at the number of fires that had been left unattended,” he said. “If it hadn’t rained later on Saturday, we would have been calling on brigades from other districts to assist.”
As it was, almost every fire brigade in Canterbury was called out, so volunteers were called away from their families and Saturday activities for fires that were mostly completely avoidable.
The winds were well forecast so should not have caught anyone by surprise.
While Canterbury is currently in an open fire season, meaning permits are not required for outdoor fires, landowners are always responsible for the fires that they light on their properties. The same applies to forestry managers.
Under Section 60 of the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act, it is an offence to cause or allow a fire to get out of control and to spread to vegetation or property. The penalties for individuals include a fine of up to $300,000 and up to two years imprisonment.
The message was very simple, Commander Stackhouse said: if you light a fire, you are responsible for it.
While Fire and Emergency always preferred to educate people rather than prosecute, at least one of last Saturday’s fires was on a property where there had been an escaped land management fire within the last year.
Fires must not be left unattended and have to be completely extinguished, not left to smoulder. When strong winds are forecast, anyone who has lit a fire should be checking for hotspots that could be reignited.
There is extensive advice at www.checkitsalright.nz.
Vegetation across Canterbury is already unusually dry for this time of year, and the outlook suggests a very high risk of wildfire in spring and summer because of the predicted El Nino weather pattern.

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]]> Federated Farmers elects new national president https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/26/federated-farmers-elects-new-national-president/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 17:07:54 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/26/federated-farmers-elects-new-national-president/ Read more]]>

Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers has today voted in South Canterbury farmer Colin Hurst as the organisation’s new national president.
Gisborne farmer Sandra Faulkner has been voted in as vice president.
Hurst, a mixed arable and dairy farmer in the Waimate area, says he’s deeply honoured to take the reins of New Zealand’s leading rural advocacy organisation.
“It’s a huge privilege to be entrusted with this role by my fellow farmers.
“Federated Farmers has such a proud 127-year history of standing up for rural New Zealand, and I’m committed to building on that legacy.
“Farmers are facing no shortage of challenges, but they’re also full of determination and optimism for the future.
“My job as president is to make sure their voices are heard loud and clear wherever decisions are being made – and that’s exactly what I intend to do.”
Hurst steps into the role after serving as Federated Farmers’ vice president for the last three years.
He has also been the organisation’s spokesperson for freshwater, biodiversity, and fire and emergency issues.
Hurst was quick to acknowledge the work of his predecessor Wayne Langford.
“I want to pay tribute to Wayne Langford for his leadership, energy, and unwavering commitment to farmers during his time as president.
“We’ve had six years on the board together and I love the guy. He’s been a phenomenal leader who has really transformed and modernised the organisation.
“Wayne has been such a strong and passionate advocate. I wish him all the best for whatever comes next. I have no doubt he will have a huge future,” Hurst says.
He says his focus will be on continuing to ensure farmers’ voices are heard clearly in national decision-making.
“Farmers are operating in an incredibly complex environment right now, from compliance pressures through to economic uncertainty.
“I’ll be working hard with a fantastic team of farming leaders from around the country – and that’s our strength. We are the trusted voice of grassroots farmers.
“Together we’ll be working to make sure farmers’ experiences and perspectives are front and centre in every discussion that affects them,” he says.
Hurst has nearly 40 years as a hands-on arable and livestock farmer, and extensive experience within Federated Farmers at both a regional and national level.
He was the 2019 Arable Farmer of the Year, is a former director for the Foundation for Arable Research, and has dedicated countless hours as a volunteer to the South Canterbury Rural Support Trust and United Wheatgrowers.
He has also been a staunch advocate for farmers at the Seed Quality Management Authority and on the Fertiliser Quality Council.
Colin, his wife Janis, and their family farm 700ha, which includes 450ha in arable crops such as wheat, grass seed, plantain and turnips, and the rest for grazing cattle. Around 250ha is irrigated.
The family has also just bought a dairy farm nearby.
New vice president Sandra Faulkner farms with husband Rob at Wairakaia, near Gisborne, where they run a diverse operation including sheep, beef, cropping, citrus, farm forestry and contracting.
She has been on the Federated Farmers national board for four years, with the local government, adverse events, health and rural communities portfolios.
She also serves on the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee and is a trustee for the Campaign for Wool, along with holding other charitable directorships.
“I’m honoured and really excited to hold this role,” Faulkner says.
“There’s so much work still to do, particularly in this period of legislative reform.
“The new RMA and local government legislation will inform how our children will farm, and that can’t be understated.”
Faulkner says she’s proud of the way Federated Farmers has built relationships with decision-makers around New Zealand.
“Right now there are national and regional leaders considering if they should pick up the phone or flick a message to the provincial Feds president.
“They know the response will be well-informed, considered from multiple points of view, deeply practical – and probably more affordable.”
Meanwhile, Southland’s Chris Dillon joins the board as arable chair, taking over from David Birkett.
South Canterbury’s Greg Anderson has been voted in as an at-large board member, and Mark Hooper has held his spot as the other at-large member.
Richard Dawkins (meat and wool chair) and Karl Dean (dairy chair) have retained their positions.

MIL OSI

]]> Fire Safety – New first response units now serving Kawau Island, Clutha Valley in medical emergencies https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/25/fire-safety-new-first-response-units-now-serving-kawau-island-clutha-valley-in-medical-emergencies/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:37:55 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/25/fire-safety-new-first-response-units-now-serving-kawau-island-clutha-valley-in-medical-emergencies/ Read more]]>

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Two new Fire and Emergency New Zealand First Responder Units came into being this week to respond to medical emergencies in their communities – one in the north and the other in the south.
Kawau Volunteer Fire Brigade, in the Hauraki Gulf, and Clutha Valley Fire Brigade, in South Otago, became two of about 65 rural Fire and Emergency brigades trained and classified as First Responder Units to attend medical emergencies in their isolated communities.
Because of the remote nature of those communities, rural brigades are often first on the scene for medical emergencies, fires and other incidents.
Both brigades completed first responder training with Hato Hone St John in recent weeks and are now well placed to provide treatment in health emergencies where every minute counts and can potentially be the difference between life and death.
Kawau Island and Clutha Valley are now even better equipped to respond to serious and life-threatening medical emergencies, working alongside the Hato Hone St John emergency ambulance network.
While Hato Hone St John remains the lead agency for all medical calls, collaboration with Fire and Emergency is strengthening emergency response in rural areas.
Fire and Emergency’s Shaun Pilgrim, Assistant District Commander – Waitemata District, says the role of the 12-strong Kawau Island brigade was a crucial service, not just for the 80 to 100 permanent island residents, but also for the hundreds of visitors regularly on the island in any given weekend.
“To have a volunteer brigade that makes up around 15 percent of the island’s population tells you everything about the quality and commitment of the people involved.”
Fire and Emergency Assistant District Commander – Clutha, Blair Harcus had earlier praised the Clutha Valley Brigade for its determination.
“It’s fantastic,” he says. “The brigade are really keen to support their community in every way that they can.”
Doug Third, Hato Hone St John Area Operations Manager – Coastal Otago, says residents in Clutha Valley can be reassured knowing there is now greater response capability in the area.
“In a medical emergency timely assessment and treatment is vital, so having the ability to dispatch locally trained first responders will help improve response times and ultimately enhance patient outcomes.”
Travis Slattery, Hato Hone St John Area Operations Manager – Rodney, says launching the Kawau Island first response team enhances the island’s resilience and emergency preparedness.
“The sooner we can reach a patient, the better their outcome is likely to be. Having a dedicated group of volunteers who are equipped with the skills to respond in someone’s time of need will help save lives, especially in such a remote location.”
He says it’s also important to note that the public should continue to call 111 and request an ambulance in a medical emergency. 

MIL OSI

]]> New Emergency Mobile Alert map “another step forward” – NEMA https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/19/new-emergency-mobile-alert-map-another-step-forward-nema/ Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:41:45 +0000 https://livenews.co.nz/2026/06/19/new-emergency-mobile-alert-map-another-step-forward-nema/ Read more]]>

Source: National Emergency Management Agency

A new map will allow anyone in New Zealand to see any live Emergency Mobile Alerts, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) says.
Hosted on GetReady.govt.nz, the map will show all current active Alerts issued by authorised agencies such as NEMA, CDEM Groups, Fire and Emergency New Zealand and Police. The web page will show a web-accessible map of the area the alert was sent to, and the content of the message.
“This new map is another step forward for our emergency management capability that will help to keep people safe and informed.” NEMA’s Acting Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management Stef Michie says.
“Emergency Mobile Alerts are an important channel to notify people in New Zealand about emergencies in their area that are a serious threat to life, health or property. This map means anyone can look up a live alert on the map, see where it was sent, and what it said.
“Being able to look up live Alerts across the country will be particularly useful for people who are travelling, and for the media who can verify emergency information to understand where the Alert was sent and where it wasn’t.”
The Emergency Mobile Alert system currently sends alerts to all mobile devices connected to cell phone towers within a highlighted area. This new map will allow people outside the targeted area to stay informed about life safety actions that friends and whānau need to take.
The map will only show Alerts, and won’t include other information like evacuation areas or weather warnings, and it’s important that people read the content of the Alert that should describe the area affected and what actions people need to take to stay safe
Stef Michie says it’s important that people don’t rely solely on Emergency Mobile Alerts, because they are just one way of finding out important information in an emergency.
“We want people in New Zealand to understand that Emergency Mobile Alerts are just one channel we have. In an emergency, we need people to listen to the radio and follow advice from local Civil Defence Emergency Management groups.
“We also want people to trust their ‘danger sense’ – look out for natural warnings like suddenly rising water or strange noises from unstable slopes, and remember Long or Strong, Get Gone.
Emergency Mobile Alerts are now viewable from anywhere in New Zealand by going to  GetReady.govt.nz/ema-map
NOTES
Emergency Mobile Alerts are sent to you by cell towers in the targeted area. You may not receive an Alert if you are not connected to a cell tower in the targeted area. Or, if you phone is connected to a cell tower in the targeted area, you may get an Alert even if you’re not physically in the area. Because of the way cell phone towers connect this can mean that some people outside the affected area will receive an Alert, so it is important to read the Alert message which should describe the area at risk or where the public need to be ready.
It does not store individual phone numbers or handset details, and does not offer an opt-out service. More information can be found here: Emergency Mobile Alert

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