This week, Tāmaki Makaurau will lose some of its most experienced and long serving Commanders through retirement.

• Commander Murray Binning (Waitemata) 
• Commander Richard Twomey (Auckland Central), and 
• Assistant Commander John Booth (Counties-Manukau)

On behalf of the Auckland Local, we want to wish Murray, Richard and John all the best with their upcoming retirements and future endeavours.

The professionalism and respect that they have shown the Local is very much appreciated, and I am sure that the door to any career station will always be opened to them for a cuppa or a scone. 

Hopefully, once Covid-19 Levels allow, we can have a proper send-off that will be fitting of the dedication and service that they have shown both to the organisation and public of New Zealand over these many decades.

Once again, on behalf of all Career Firefighters, Dispatchers, Trainers, Volunteer Support Officers and Fire Risk Managers, and all other members of the Auckland Local of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, we say congratulations and all the best in their future endeavours.