Yesterday afternoon the battle to locate a volunteer firefighter trapped under a landslide concluded with the recovery of his body at Muriwai.

Our hearts go out to his family.  Our thoughts are with those that were responding with him at the time, the Muriwai Brigade and all those deeply affected by this loss.  His line of duty death will be felt widely across fire and emergency personnel and the Muriwai community.

He has paid the ultimate price for his dedication and commitment to his community and his service will not be forgotten.

We also recognise the professional USAR team that persevered, determined to bring him home to his family despite the complex operation being hampered by weather and dangerous conditions.    

We wish the volunteer firefighter who was rescued from the same landslide a full recovery from his injuries.

The NZPFU has corresponded with the Muriwai Brigade sending our aroha and offer of any support we may be able to provide to the firefighters’ families and the Brigade.

In unity,
Wattie Watson
National Secretary