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As summer approaches, fire brigades across the motu are putting the call out for volunteers to join the workforce.
Volunteer firefighters make up 83 percent of the workforce in New Zealand and several brigades have been short on people for years.
A forest fire in Waipara recently burnt through 108 hectares over ten days, causing stress for the season ahead.
Kathryn speaks to Kaikōura Volunteer Fire Brigade chief officer Craig Guthrie, and Ryan Grenfell, the chief officer in Havelock.
Michelle Kitney, CEO of Volunteering NZ, says the Covid pandemic and the cost of living crisis has changed how much time people have to give back across the volunteer sector.
170224 CHRIS SKELTON / POOL Firefighters continue their efforts on Saturday as they work to dampen down remaining hot spots and create a buffer zone around the 24km perimeter fire ground in Christchurch's Port Hills. Pictured Stephen Robson (Peel Forest Volunteer firefighter) Photo: CHRIS SKELTON