Firefighters and rescue services around the Hibiscus Coast will once again down tools between 11a -12noon tomorrow, 4 November, as negotiations are still unsuccessful.

This is the second round of strikes after months of negotiations between Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU). 

The first strike ignited in August when career firefighters across New Zealand downed tools. 

Local firefighters protested due to being underpaid, understaffed, the current state of their fleet, and having a 24/7 crew at Silverdale Fire Station. 

During the protests, firefighters walked from the Silverdale Fire Station to the Orewa bridge holding posters and banners. They were met with several waves and car toots of support. The strikes were extinguished at the end of August when the two parties met to negotiate.

To date, negotiations have been unsuccessful resulting in more strike action. 

Fire and Emergency will continue to respond to emergencies during this hour, but there will be fewer firefighters in the city areas and they will take longer to respond to some emergencies.

“Part of our contingency plan during the hour includes not responding to less serious incidents like private fire alarms where there is no evidence of a fire, small rubbish fires or animal rescues. This will ensure our resources are focused where they are needed most,” said a media release from FENZ.

The volunteers from almost 600 fire stations across New Zealand, and two on the Hibiscus Coast, will respond to emergencies. They are trained to provide services.

If negotiations are not settled, then another strike is planned on Monday.