Supporting our local heroes
If an emergency happens, you know they’re here to help.
If your property catches fire or you’re in a car crash, it is the volunteers and career firefighters of Fire and Emergency New Zealand who come running to help.
As soon as that siren goes, they drop what they’re doing and put your safety first.
Behind our tremendous volunteers are another group of community heroes, who get less attention but are vital to Fire and Emergency.
It’s the employers and co-workers who support our volunteers at work, knowing that at any moment they may need to leave and respond to a crisis.
Did you know Fire and Emergency give recognition to the local businesses who support this important work with the Proud Employer mark?
Look out for this mark on businesses in your community or find out which of your local businesses are Proud Employers of Fire and Emergency volunteers here.
And you can show your support for our hardworking fire crews by making a comment on this post – why not share a tribute you would like to make to our firefighters.
Pictured here are four of the 12,000 volunteers who work across the country. Left to right: Marshall (Marsh) Anderson, Jarrad West, Iain Powell, and Marsh’s brother Ti Anderson. All work at Fonterra and volunteer for the local fire brigade.
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.
Disaster Welfare and Support Team - Hastings
We are looking for highly committed, multi-skilled volunteers for our Disaster Welfare and Support Team in Hastings. Team trains regularly in St Leonard.
For more information, please contact hastings@redcross.org.nz
Respite care when you need it
From rehabilitation after a hospital stay, to a little extra support, whether it’s for a few nights or a few weeks - respite care provides temporary care in a range of circumstances.
If you still live in your own home, a short stay at one of our care centres could be a welcome break from your usual routine.
Our respite care is offered at rest home-level care, hospital and specialist dementia care. In some circumstances, we may be able to offer you respite care in a serviced apartment.
If you've been thinking about moving to a Ryman care centre, spending time with us in respite care is a great way for you to experience the lifestyle in our villages before making your decision.