“For the Price of a Coffee a Week, the Support is Phenomenal”
Daniel, a Volunteer at Ngongotaha Fire Brigade, has been a proud member of the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society since 2017. He firmly believes in the incredible value membership offers and thinks more people should know about the support on hand.
A Lifeline in Difficult Times
Daniel has worked full-time in the tourism industry since 2006. But in 2019, when COVID-19 disrupted the industry, he lost everything. With bills piling up “left, right, and centre,” he turned to the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society for help. He applied for a discretionary loan of $500, explaining his urgent need.
This wasn’t the first time Daniel had received assistance from the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society, and he remains deeply grateful for the timely support that helped him and his family get back on track.
Beyond financial aid, the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society also supported him with specialist medical expenses. “They covered parking fees, which aren’t cheap at hospitals, especially in Hamilton. That was really helpful.”
Previously a St John member, Daniel ultimately chose to prioritise his NZ Firefighters Welfare Society membership, finding it better value for money.
More Than Just Financial Support
Daniel also takes advantage of the exclusive member discounts, particularly recommending the savings at Noel Leeming. He has accessed the NZ Firefighters Welfare Society’s counselling services as well, appreciating their convenience and effectiveness when he needed them most.
A User-Friendly System with a Supportive Team
“The system is super easy to use. The BA1 form is straightforward, and the team is always helpful. The Station Reps are a mix of volunteers and career firefighters, so they truly understand what life is like for members. You don’t have to explain too much – they just get it.”
Affordable Holiday Homes for a Well-Deserved Break
The NZ Firefighters Welfare Society’s holiday homes have also been a major benefit for Daniel. “They’re reasonably priced and well spread out across the country. At one point, we couldn’t find availability in Turangi, but the office team arranged a home for us through the Police network. That was amazing service – so thoughtful and appreciated.”
An Organisation That’s Always There
“The welfare society is just fantastic. Having that support, being able to take a break, and remembering that there’s more to life – it’s priceless. The value for money is outstanding, and the support is phenomenal.
The best part? I know I’ll be a member for life. Even when I finish Volunteering, I’ll stay on. This is an organisation that’s there for you – and often, when you didn’t know you needed it.”
