13/05/2026
Meet the Brigade 🚒
Every month, we’re introducing more of our dedicated team to you — the community we’re proud to serve.
In May, we'd like to introduce Senior Firefighter (SFF) Shaniah Flood. Shaniah is a proud member of the Okaihau brigade of over 10 years, and regularly turns out for Kaikohe's brigade during the day as well! As pictured, she also serves alongside her dad Daniel, and delivers a great fire safety demonstration.
We managed to track Shaniah down between calls (quite a feat some days!) to ask her a few questions.
🗨 What's your day job? What's something from your day to day role that helps with being a volunteer firefighter?
🗯 "I work for Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) as a Technician logistics support. A lot of what I do day-to-day helps me be a better firefighter on calls. I have a strong understanding of our equipment and how to use it correctly. I helped kit out our appliance, so I know where everything is and how it’s set up.
My job also means I’m familiar with maintaining and troubleshooting gear, which is valuable on the fireground. Because of my job, I’m particular about how gear is used, and correct terminology, which usually earns me a few eye rolls from the rest of the brigade..."
🗨 What has been your favourite training course?
🗯 “It’s hard to pick a favourite because I’ve been lucky enough to go on some great courses and meet some awesome people along the way. But if I had to choose one, it would probably be the QFF course because it was very hands-on, which is the style of learning I enjoy most.”
🗨 and finally, and most importantly.... every week after training we get together as a team, and have dinner to connect and unwind. What's your favourite thing on the menu?
🗯 “It’s not technically a meal, but Aunty Karen’s lemon cake is easily my favourite thing on a Monday night.”
Keep an eye out as we continue to introduce more of the crew over the coming months. 👨🚒👩🚒
