FENZ does not employ sufficient career firefighters to maintain minimum crew levels. The level of career firefighters across New Zealand has barely changed since the 1990s.
In 2022, FENZ agreed “in principle” to employ an additional 230 firefighters over 5 years to maintain minimum crew levels. Instead of increasing the number of recruit courses FENZ has reduced recruit courses.
The staffing levels for the roles that support firefighters are too low leaving staff no option but to work excessive hours. Some Volunteer Support Officers (which support volunteer fire brigades) are driving long hours adding to the exhaustion and the risk.
The administration requirements for Trainers on top of their training day means some are working more than 70 hours a week, regularly.
Tired and overworked staff are more likely to suffer injury and illness including mental health decline. The Health, Safety and Wellbeing team also need support and proper resourcing so that they can support firefighters and others to get the help they need so they can return to work.
