- Are you an experienced, qualified firefighter, with a minimum of 4 years full time service?
- Are you fluent in English?
- Are you a worthy representative of your fire service?
If so, you may want to consider participating in the New Zealand Firefighter Exchange Programme.
An international firefighter exchange provides you with the opportunity to improve your practical skills, knowledge and experience by being an active member of an overseas fire brigade.
Next steps
Fire and Emergency New Zealand generally expects exchanges to be for a duration of 12 months.
1. Download and read these forms
- International firefighter exchange guide
- Exchange partner details form
- International firefighter exchange memorandum of understanding
2. Register your interest
To register your interest for an exchange to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, email our exchange coordinator at International.FFexchange@fireandemergency.nz with the following information:
- Your name
- The name of your current fire service
- The city you would like to live in, if you have a preference
- Confirmation that your fire service supports an exchange
3. Find an exchange partner
The exchange coordinator will send you a list of potential exchange partners. The process for finding a suitable exchange partner is largely self-directed and it may take some time. Once you do find an exchange partner, it's important that all aspects of the exchange arrangements are discussed and agreed to in writing.
Returning firefighters are asked to submit a report on the valuable experiences they have whilst on exchange.
Officers may apply for an exchange, but will perform the role of firefighter.