UFBA Position Statement - NZPFU Bargaining & Industrial Action

Kia ora whānau,

We know many of you have been following the ongoing industrial action between the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) and Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

As your membership association, the UFBA has a broad membership base, including both volunteer and paid firefighters, and our services reflect this broad membership.

While we support all members of our firefighting whānau, it is not the UFBA’s role as the primary representative body for volunteers to become involved in an industrial dispute between Fire and Emergency and its employed staff.

For that reason, we cannot be seen to support, or take actions that could be interpreted as supporting, either side in the current dispute. Those employment matters are for the NZPFU and Fire and Emergency to work through directly, and we respect their right to do so.

Our role - and our responsibility, is to stand for positive change that uplifts and strengthens ALL firefighters.

We know this period can feel uncertain, and for some brigades there may be added pressure. Please know there are pathways for you through the UFBA, and you are not alone. If your brigade is feeling stretched, reach out. We’re here to support you in every way we can.

We’ve also seen some confusion and misinformation making the rounds. It’s disappointing to see that this could divide our fire whānau, that’s not who we are. Our way is to act with mana, professionalism and respect for each other.

At the UFBA, we remain focused on what brings us together - our shared purpose, our courage, and our commitment to our communities. The public don’t know the difference between a paid or volunteer firefighter when they call for help.

Together, we’ll keep supporting each other and upholding the values that make our firefighting whānau strong.

Ngā mihi nui,
UFBA Board and Management