Emergency services works around the clock at Wellington fire

Salvation Army Emergency Services teams served drinks and meals around the clock to firefighters battling a major bush fire near Wellington.

Around 30 officers and soldiers from Central Division worked six-hour shifts providing sustenance to a constant flow of up to 80 firefighters, and large numbers of paramedics, police and council and DOC workers at the height of the blaze.

Salvation Army personnel used Titahi Bay Golf Course kitchen facilities to prepare meals.

The fire started at 4:20 pm on Sunday and is believed to have been deliberately lit. It swept through 75 hectares of bush and gorse, forcing the evacuation of 150 residents.

Firefighters spent most of Monday dampening down hotspots. The Salvation Army finished its work at midnight.

Central Division Commander Major Rod Carey, who worked an overnight shift at the golf course, says it was a privilege to serve the emergency services workers. The Salvation Army’s support and ministry was clearly appreciated, he says.