Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade

09/07/2026

At our recent monthly meeting, Jason Searle was handed his red helmet by DCFO Mike Borthwick, officially promoting him to Station Officer.
Congratulations Jason.

06/07/2026

Well it’s been a very busy first 6 months of 2026 for the Brigade with 114 call-outs (87 for the same period last year).
It’s too many and that’s not because it impacts on us, our families and employers BUT because it means 114 times people in our community were affected by an event that required an emergency response.
That level of impact will vary depending on the response that is required so here’s how we can reduce it.
- ensure you have working smoke detectors
- safely charge rechargeable batteries and devices
- ensure you dispose or ashes safely and where they will not set something else on fire before they are cold
- ensure all outdoor burning is carried out safely https://www.checkitsalright.nz/can-i-light-a-fire
- drive safely and especially drive to the conditions
For more info, head to https://www.fireandemergency.nz and check out the resources available to guide you.
Stay safe everyone.

19/05/2026

Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade – Sponsorship Opportunity
Help Us Purchase a Brigade Support Van

The Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade is seeking community support to help fund the purchase of a dedicated brigade van, with a target budget of $50,000 for a late model second hand van.
This vehicle will play an important role in supporting our volunteer firefighters by transporting members to:
• Weekly training practices
• Specialist training courses
• Community events
• Regional and national firefighting competitions
As this is not an operational emergency response vehicle, it is not eligible for funding through Fire and Emergency New Zealand. For this reason, our brigade must raise the funds independently.
We are proud to share that we have already committed $12,500 toward the purchase. We are now seeking sponsorships and donations from local businesses, organisations, and community members to help us reach our goal.
Why This Matters
Our brigade is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers who give their time to protect and serve the Cromwell community. Ongoing training and participation in competitions are vital for:
• Maintaining high operational standards
• Strengthening teamwork
• Developing advanced firefighting skills
• Representing Cromwell at a regional and national level
How to Support
We welcome:
• One-off donations
• Business sponsorships
• Major funding partnerships
Every contribution, large or small, will help strengthen our brigade and support the safety and resilience of our community.
For sponsorship discussions or further information, please contact:
Mike Borthwick
Deputy Chief Fire Officer
Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade
Mob: 027 588 8779
Email: [email protected]
Or deposits can be made to:
Bank Account Name: Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade
Account Number: 06-0921-0005578-002
(Please use your name or business name as the payment reference so that we can thankyou)
Thank you for supporting your local volunteer firefighters.

07/05/2026

New leadership in the Brigade

Cromwell Volunteer Fire Brigade enters a new era as Phil Ryan takes over as Chief Fire Officer from Neil Gillespie. Read about the leadership change, the dedicated team of 35 volunteers, and what it takes to keep the community safe.

05/05/2026

Last night we held our 152nd AGM, at which our Cheif Fire Officer Neil Gillespie handed over the reigns & CFO helmet to Phil Ryan who was our current Deputy Cheif. Phil in turn handed the DCFO helmet & role to Mike Borthwick.
Thanks to Bobby Lamont our Assistant District Commander for officiating & speaking.
Many thanks to Neil for his years leading the brigade as the DCFO & CFO. Neil will continue to be active in the brigade as a member of the Operation Support team.
Congratulations to Phil & Mike.

02/05/2026

Cromwell relay team. The young and the breathless. Got 3rd in the plate grade at National Firefighter Challenge, Wellington

15/04/2026

Now a restricted fire season and permits required as detailed here - please follow the rules!

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is moving the Otago Central, Naseby and Lakes zones into a restricted fire season as of 8am on Wednesday 15 April, until further notice.

During a restricted fire season, anyone wanting to light an outdoor fire must first obtain a fire permit from Fire and Emergency.

The following special risk zones will remain in a prohibited fire season:
- Queenstown
- Lake Wānaka islands
- Lake Wakatipu islands
- Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve.

The section 52 prohibition of fireworks in Upper Waitaki, Central and Lakes fire zones will also be revoked at 8am on Wednesday 15 April, until further notice.

Fireworks will remain prohibited in the following special risk zones:
- Queenstown
- Lake Wānaka islands
- Lake Wakatipu islands
- Mt Iron and Albert Town reserve
- Glendhu Bluffs
- Naseby
- Lake Ōhau.

Otago District Commander, Deane Chalmers, says recent cooler weather has reduced the fire risk.

"South-westerly weather and shorter days mean the vegetation around the district is no longer as dry.

"Fires are less likely to start and will not spread as quickly in these conditions.

"But fires can start in Otago at any time of the year, which is why people must apply for a fire permit at www.checkitsalright.nz," Deane Chalmers says.

"This website will also tell you whether the conditions are safe and provide safety tips for your burn."