The Kaitaia Volunteer Fire Brigade has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1968. Over the years, the brigade has grown significantly, responding to an increasing number of incidents annually, from 35 in its first year to over 420 today. The brigade is equipped with four fire appliances, two of which have 4x4 capacity, allowing them to effectively respond to emergencies in both urban
and rural areas. The current Chief Fire Officer is Craig Rogers, and the Deputy Chief Fire Officer is Ross Beddows. Both have been awarded the prestigious 25-year Gold Star for their long-standing service and dedication to the brigade. The brigade serves the town of Kaitaia and the surrounding Far North region of New Zealand. This area includes a mix of urban and rural landscapes, requiring the brigade to be versatile in handling various types of emergencies, including: Fires, medical events, motor vehicle accidents, civil defence and natural disaster responses, and animal rescues. In addition to emergency responses, the brigade is actively involved in community education, offering fire safety advice and participating in local events to promote safety awareness
The brigade is deeply integrated into the local community, maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie among its members. The support from the community is evident, with local businesses and residents often stepping up to assist the brigade when needed. This close-knit relationship helps ensure that the brigade can effectively serve and protect the people of Kaitaia and the Far North. A crucial aspect of the brigade's success is the unwavering support from the employers of its volunteers. Many local businesses allow their employees to respond to emergencies during work hours. This support is vital, as it enables volunteers to balance their professional responsibilities with their commitment to the brigade. In addition to those supported by their employers, a significant number of the brigade's volunteers are self-employed. These individuals manage their own businesses while dedicating time to serve their community through the brigade.
