He has PTSD, but like all emergency volunteers, he is not eligible for ACC cover for mental injury. Under current legislation ACC could provide broad physical injury cover to volunteers - the same available to all New Zealanders. If a physical injury resulted in a mental injury that was also covered by ACC. The Minister for ACC, Scott Simpson, said his focus was on ensuring the scheme was sustainable for future generations, not expanding. Around 25 Fire and Emergency volunteer firefighters responded to the Mount Maunganui landslide.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 26, 2026 04:19 UTC