NZPFU Member and firefighter Josh Darby has produced the attached comprehensive analysis of research into firefighters’ mental health and wellbeing. Our Comms Centre members are also subject to trauma and need similar mental health and wellbeing assistance.

Josh has presented the report to FENZ OLT and the NZPFU conference. His presentation includes video clip-selfies of firefighters telling their stories of mental health issues and the help they need. Josh is seeking permission from those firefighters to more widely publish their stories.

This report is well worth the read – it also has practical recommendations that FENZ could implement now.

FENZ’s formal written response to this report is disappointing and the NZPFU have written to FENZ concerned that they have only “noted” the report and recommendations with no firm commitment to implement them.

Members are reminded that should they need any assistance all they have to do is ask. FENZ has confirmed any requests including psychologist or psychiatrist assistance will be provided and as it will be attributed to a national budget there should be no issue from regional and area management.

If you need help and do not know how to ask or who to ask give your Local a call – or ring Welfare Officer Jim Ryburn 021 654 184. If you have any issues receiving help, or would rather not go through your management or Local please ring the National Secretary Wattie Watson 021 928 819, National President Ian Wright 021 497 448 or National Vice President Joseph Stanley 027 659 9965.

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Christchurch Local Annual General Meeting

This notice is to inform you that the AGM for the Christchurch Local of the NZPFU, will be held on Thursday 10th August 2023 at Christchurch City Fire Station, starting at 0830. It would be appreciated if the on-duty City SSO could please co-ordinate any truck movements required.


Tauranga Local Branch A.G.M.

Wednesday 23rd of August Starting 8:30am
Venue: Mt Maunganui Fire Station


Annual General Meeting

Members are advised that pursuant to Union Rule B.15.11, notice is given for the Auckland Local Annual General Meeting to be held on Friday 18 August 2023.