The first fire crew assembled by the New Zealand Defence Force to assist in a multi-agency response to the Victorian fires returned home to New Zealand on Saturday 7 March.
Fire Crew at work
The firefighters are one of three crews returning after three weeks assisting Australian firefighters battle bush fires in Victoria.
Commander of Joint Forces New Zealand, MAJ GEN Rhys Jones said he was pleased the NZDF were able to be part of the wider New Zealand response during what was a particularly difficult time for our Anzac neighbours.
‘The NZDF fire crew that headed to Victoria faced a challenging situation, but their training and teamwork saw them able to meet that challenge and be a valuable part of the New Zealand contingent.
‘With all the various agencies working together, New Zealand was able to send professional crews who provided much needed assistance and I congratulate them on their efforts.’
A number of civilian fire crews from the first contingent arrived in New Zealand on Thursday 5 March aboard a RNZAF C-130 Hercules.