Fire and Emergency New Zealand seeks more volunteers for North Canterbury

9 Haratua 2024

North Canterbury volunteer fire brigades had a flat-out summer putting out a number of wildfires across the region.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Group Manager Colin Russell says North Canterbury crews also helped their neighbours out responding to fires at Waikari, Glasnevin and the big one on the Port Hills.

"Our hard-working volunteers do an amazing job serving and protecting their communities and we rely on our volunteer brigades at these events," he says.

"Fire and Emergency has over 11,700 volunteers across the country and without their support we could not provide an essential service to people in need."

Colin Russell says while there are currently enough volunteers across North Canterbury, Fire and Emergency is always on the lookout for extra help for the area’s 16 brigades.

"These days it is about more than just fighting fires," he says.

"Our firefighters also respond to medical calls, motor vehicle crashes, hazardous substances events, technical rescues, and severe weather events year-round.

"Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn new skills, challenge yourself, and give back to your community."

On Thursday 16 May a range of brigades across North Canterbury will host open evenings, which will run from 5.30pm.

The open evenings are an opportunity for people to learn more about volunteering and what the role entails.

"We would love to see communities visiting their local fire stations and chatting to brigades about how they can get involved.

"Don’t be deterred by the physical aspect of the role, we also welcome members of the community that can help with roles such as administration or looking after the brigade's social media. There are plenty of roles suited to everyone. It’s also a great way to get to know your community.

"I encourage everyone to head along and learn more about how they can assist our brigades in the vital work that they do."

Brigades hosting open evenings

• Amberley Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Culverden Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Cheviot Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Hawarden Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Hanmer Springs Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Kaikōura Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Scargill Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Waikari Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Waiau Volunteer Fire Brigade
• Waipara Volunteer Fire Brigade