Firefighters and other NZPFU members have not had a pay increase since July 2023. They are still some of the lowest paid staff in FENZ.
Trainee firefighters start on $56,500 and once on a fire station earn $60,500 gross.
A Firefighter with at least 4 years’ experience, and undertaken two more levels of qualifications, has a base salary of $80,682 gross.
A Station Officer who is not only responsible for their crew but may be in command and control of an incident and other crews earn $93,500. Many have been firefighting for a decade before taking their Officer exams.
A Senior Station Officer who can be in command and control of many crews on the incident ground are appointed at $108,524 gross p.a.
FENZ insists on using a public sector job sizing tool that does not fit operational roles as it does not recognise the qualifications, training and responsibilities of firefighters on the incident ground. As a result, corporate-type roles can earn $150,000 or more for significantly less hours, pressure and impact for the community.
