NZ firefighters help out in the US
NZ firefighters help out in the US
9 August 2006
published by www.newstalkzb.co.nz
New Zealand — Ten New Zealand firefighters are being sent to the United States to lend a helping hand with the wildfire season in the north-western states.
They will be part of 50 strong joint Australian-New Zealand deployment.
The mission is in response to an urgent request for assistance from US fire agencies.
Internal Affairs Minister Rick Barker says it is not the first time New Zealand has lent assistance in such cases and he is proud the tradition is continuing.
He says the firefighters will provide divisional supervision, helicopter management and liaison capability.