Kawau Volunteer Fire Brigade has officially been classified as a First Responder Unit to attend medical emergencies across the island. The 12-person rural brigade recently completed specialized training with Hato Hone St John to provide rapid treatment for serious and life-threatening health incidents.
Because of Kawau Island’s location, the volunteer brigade is often the first to arrive on the scene for medical emergencies, fires, and other incidents. Having locally trained responders ready to step in where every minute counts can potentially be the difference between life and death.
Fire and Emergency Waitemata District Assistant Commander Shaun Pilgrim says the unit provides a crucial service for both the 80 to 100 permanent residents and the hundreds of regular weekend visitors.
“To have a volunteer brigade that makes up around 15 percent of the island’s population tells you everything about the quality and commitment of the people involved,” Pilgrim says.
Hato Hone St John Rodney Area Operations Manager Travis Slattery says launching the team directly enhances the island’s overall resilience and emergency preparedness.
“The sooner we can reach a patient, the better their outcome is likely to be,” Slattery says. “Having a dedicated group of volunteers who are equipped with the skills to respond in someone’s time of need will help save lives, especially in such a remote location.”
While the Kawau brigade will provide immediate on-the-ground care, Hato Hone St John remains the lead agency for all medical calls. Slattery notes that the public must continue to dial 111 and request an ambulance during any medical emergency.
Kawau Island is one of two new First Responder Units established this week, alongside the Clutha Valley Fire Brigade in South Otago. There are now about 65 rural Fire and Emergency brigades trained to operate as First Responder Units to support isolated communities across New Zealand.
