It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Chris 'Picko' Pickering, who has died peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family.
The NZPFU and FENZ met for bargaining over three days this week.
The discussions were meaningful.
It was refreshing to be able to have intelligent and thoughtful discussions which was in stark contrast to the first 12 months of bargaining
where some FENZ representatives were disinterested, disrespectful and out of their depth.
NZPFU has now issued notices for one-hour full stoppages/strikes from 12 noon for Friday the 7th and Friday the 14th November.
This notice is about the impact of FENZ’s mismanagement on the state of the fire service from a career staff perspective. We acknowledge the service and dedication of volunteers and their brigades and that they too are facing a Dire Emergency. The NZPFU has been inundated with calls from volunteers seeking support and advocacy as they struggle with failing appliances, increased demands on their time and failing mental health due to the impacts of emergency response.
31 OCTOBER STRIKE WITHDRAWN
7 NOVEMBER STRIKE NOTIFIED
Yesterday, the NZPFU and FENZ met in mediation.
The NZPFU and Fire and Emergency met in mediation today which was part of the facilitation application process.
The Parties have agreed to reconvene bargaining for the 3rd, 4th and 5th November 2025 in Christchurch.
Our members serve their communities to protect and preserve life, property and the environment. NZPFU representatives are based on all career fire stations. There are also 19 Union Locals in the major metropolitan and principal centres where career firefighters are employed.
