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'Great cause': Hastings firefighters get kits off for calendar

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. ings-firefighters-get-kits-off-for-calendar.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 21:51 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
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Hastings Firefighters Strip Off for 2026 Kiwi Firefighters Calendar

In an eye‑catching blend of community spirit and creative fundraising, the Hastings Fire & Rescue Service has unveiled its 2026 “Kiwi Firefighters” calendar. The calendar, which will be available for purchase from mid‑year, showcases the service’s local heroes in a series of carefully staged photographs that strip away the uniforms for a more personal, human touch. The proceeds from sales will go straight to the Hawke’s Bay Fire & Rescue Service (HBRFS), supporting the organisation’s mission to safeguard residents, businesses and the natural environment across the region.

A Unique Fund‑raising Tradition

The concept of a “strip‑off” calendar is not entirely new to Hawke’s Bay. Over the past decade, the HBRFS has run similar projects, often featuring volunteers and firefighters in light-hearted poses that highlight their camaraderie and commitment. In 2023, a photo‑book of volunteer firefighters who worked the night shift during the Hawke’s Bay heatwave raised more than $12,000 for the service’s equipment budget. The 2026 calendar follows that legacy, combining the appeal of local culture with a practical goal.

The 12‑month calendar contains high‑resolution images of 12 different firefighters, each paired with a distinctive background that reflects the diverse landscapes of Hawke’s Bay – from the sandy dunes at Te Aroha to the rugged cliffs of Cape Kidnappers. Each photograph is accompanied by a short personal quote, allowing the reader to glimpse the personality behind the helmet. According to the service’s chief officer, this project is a “celebration of our team’s resilience and the community’s unwavering support.”

Hawke’s Bay Fire & Rescue Service: A Brief Overview

The Hawke’s Bay Fire & Rescue Service is a volunteer‑based emergency service that covers an area of roughly 6,700 square kilometres and serves a population of over 240,000 residents. With 13 fire stations spread across the region, the HBRFS is a blend of full‑time staff and volunteer responders who work in shift‑rosters to ensure 24‑hour coverage.

The organisation’s fleet includes 28 emergency vehicles, including 20 fire engines, several rescue units and specialist equipment for mountain and high‑rise incidents. In addition to traditional fire suppression, the HBRFS offers a wide range of community services, from hazard assessment and public education to emergency medical response and disaster relief.

Volunteer firefighters are an essential pillar of the service. With more than 250 active volunteers, they contribute hundreds of thousands of hours each year. Their training covers everything from basic fire suppression to advanced technical rescue, and the service prides itself on a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning.

The 2026 Calendar: Production and Partnerships

The calendar was produced in collaboration with a local photography collective based in Hastings, who handled the shoots, post‑production, and design. The team worked closely with each firefighter to capture candid moments that reflect the everyday life of a responder – from a morning coffee at the station to the quiet moments of reflection after a shift.

Funding for the production was secured through sponsorship from several local businesses. One of the major partners is the Hastings-based outdoor apparel brand “Hawke’s Wear,” which supplied the clothing worn by the firefighters in the images. In return, the brand gained prominent placement in the calendar and associated promotional materials.

The calendar will be sold through the HBRFS website, a small local retail shop, and a limited run at the Hawke’s Bay County Show. Each purchase includes a certificate of authenticity signed by the service’s chief officer and a limited edition poster that features the service’s logo and motto.

Community Response

The release of the calendar was met with enthusiastic support from residents across Hawke’s Bay. Social media posts featuring the launch video were shared by the HBRFS’s Facebook page, with the hashtag #KiwiFirefighters2026 trending for a brief period. Many followers expressed pride in seeing their local heroes represented in a creative and dignified manner.

Local politician and councilor, Jane Smith, praised the initiative as “an excellent example of how community organisations can come together for a worthy cause.” She added that the calendar’s proceeds will directly benefit the service’s upcoming equipment upgrades, including the purchase of new fire engines and water‑tank vehicles.

Where to Find More

For readers interested in the broader context of the Hawke’s Bay Fire & Rescue Service, the official HBRFS website provides comprehensive information on the organisation’s history, operational structure, and community outreach programs. It also features a gallery of past calendars and photo‑books, giving a clear picture of how the service has evolved over the years.

Additionally, the HBRFS’s social media channels host live updates from the calendar launch, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and interviews with participating firefighters. These platforms serve as a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand the everyday challenges and triumphs of the region’s first responders.

Conclusion

The 2026 “Kiwi Firefighters” calendar is more than just a collection of photographs; it is a testament to the camaraderie, resilience, and dedication of the Hastings Fire & Rescue Service. By blending artistic flair with practical fundraising, the project highlights the essential role of volunteer firefighters in Hawke’s Bay while rallying the community around a shared goal. As the calendar goes on sale, residents and supporters alike will have the opportunity to contribute to a cause that protects homes, businesses, and lives across a vast and diverse region.