Firefighter Industrial Action and Collective Bargaining w/ NZPFU Vice President Martin Campbell: 12 May, 2026

Since last year, firefighters have been carrying out hour-long rolling strikes every week, criticising the state of Fire and Emergency New Zealand and labelling the present situation a “Dire Emergency”. Firefighters have been calling for increased staffing,  better pay and healthcare and a modern vehicle fleet. With frequent appliance breakdowns and short staffing, there are concerns that New Zealand’s emergency services are stretched to capacity. Some are also requesting an independent inquiry into the management and funding of FENZ. 

Producer Liam spoke with Martin Campbell, National Vice President and Auckland Secretary of the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, about the ongoing industrial action, what issues the fire service and firefighters currently face and what the Professional Firefighters Union hopes can be achieved.