In accordance with the Rules of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters’ Union, nominations are called for the positions of:
Local Secretary
Local President
Local Vice-President
Local Committee members (up to 15 Committee member positions)
We’re again in a position where we have to navigate a challenging and extended period of collective bargaining with Fire and Emergency. In times like these, our unity and collective strength as union members is critical. It’s a good moment to reflect, and reinforce why solidarity matters, and why it’s so essential we stick together.
Members will no doubt be aware of the major 5th Alarm fire that broke out last night on the North Shore. This fire had widespread impacts to people across Tamaki Makaurau with several Emergency Alerts having to be made. Additionally, our thoughts go out the local community, including the owner, tenants, and staff of the businesses impacted.
Please see below for events for Workers’ Memorial Day 28 April 2025.
Occupational disease is the primary killer of firefighters globally and self-harm resulting from mental health issues directly attributed to
the workplace is sadly prevalent.
Off-duty or on-break NZPFU members are encouraged to attend these events as we continue the decades long battle to have firefighters
occupational disease recognised so that firefighters and their families are supported in their greatest time of need.
The NZPFU will be sending out invites to Locals for a Zoom meeting next week to provide an update on bargaining.
There have been eight bargaining sessions with the next session to be held in Christchurch this week. We have one more agreed session
for the 8th and 9th April.
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Senior Firefighter Carl Whiten, who has left us after a courageous battle with cancer. Carl was a dedicated firefighter of the Christchurch Brigade, whose unwavering commitment and service profoundly impacted the lives of countless people across Ōtautahi and beyond.
The NZPFU has been notified of recent “urgent” requests for participation in surveys by FENZ.
The NZPFU notifies members that it is not in their interests to participate in any survey where the NZPFU has not had the necessary
information or involvement to clarify the purpose and scope of the survey, veracity of the methodology including selection of participants
and how data will be analysed, or protections of confidential information/anonymity including who has access to the data/information and how
it will be stored and used.
Members will no doubt be aware of Wednesday's major fire in a scrapyard in Papakura. Whilst the cause of this fire is still under investigation what is known is that the impacts of it were widespread right across Auckland.
We have been told that staff wanting to do Return to Work Duties will have to do them at District HQ and they do not intend to reimburse your travel costs, “you are getting an enhanced pay and you can fund your own travel”. We have since got an agreement that the travel distance reimbursement will be paid for travel to District HQ.
Following a devastating house fire in Milldale north of Auckland yesterday the Local has written to the Acting National Commander formally asking for Fire and Emergency to undertake an operational review.
The NZPFU has been notified that Stations and Districts are being asked to provide information on the numbers of those that use the gyms, safety standards and rating on equipment on gear not supplied by FENZ and any concerns or observations.
You need to know that FENZ is refusing to reimburse travel time, to the Auckland Region Training Centre, at the increased rate all other travel has been paid since March 2021.
The Auckland Local has serious concerns about the current and ongoing state of the frontline fleet of fire trucks, rescue tenders, aerial ladder trucks and support vehicles throughout Auckland.
As 2024 draws to a close and the festive season ramps up, we wish you all a safe and happy festive season.
This is a great time to thank all those that work hard for the interests of our members.
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) are aware that some members are being contacted by Fair Way or a law firm to participate in interviews or provide information. We want to remind you that you cannot be compelled to participate in any interview or process.
I apologise that my first notice as the National President of the NZPFU has taken so long to come out. Since taking on our new roles as the President and Vice President, Marty and I have had to 'hit the ground running'.
Please read to the end.
It was an honour to attend and listen to the yarns and accolades for Paul Shepherd at his retirement function at NTC today.