Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) says 111 calls will still be answered and responded to, but there could be significant delays during a nationwide strike of members of the Professional Firefighters Union between 11am and 12pm today.
FENZ will be focusing on critical incidents as 450-odd career firefighters go on a one-hour strike today. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
FENZ national commander Brendan Nally said people should double check fire alarms and memorise evacuation plans before the strike takes place, so as to be best prepared.
"We will answer all the calls but because the Firefighters Union has directed their members not to respond during that time, we will be focusing on critical incidents," he said.
He said executive officers will assess scenes in order to prioritise resources as 450-odd career firefighters are on strike, leading to significant reduction in services.
The Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) had given notice of two, one-hour national stoppages after failed negotiations with FENZ.
Earlier this month, NZPFU union's national secretary Wattie Watson said the decision to strike had not been taken lightly but reflected the gravity of the situation.
She said members wanted enforceable protections to ensure they were appropriately staffed and resourced to protect the community.
"I absolutely 100 percent believe that we can get through this"- FENZ national commander Brendan Nally
Nally said in an interview with Morning Report the parties were at an impasse despite 13 months of negotiations and 29 days of bargaining.
He said, "I absolutely 100 percent believe that we can get through this but like any parties where there is a big gap in a negotiations, FENZ, we believe that we need some assistance to help us rather than going to what the Union is taking a different approach."
The next nation-wide strike is planned for 26 August.