Fire and Emergency chief remains on leave after minister's rebuke

Friday 23 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Fri 23 Oct, 7:36am

In this story Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Brooke van Velden, Kerry Gregory

Fire and Emergency New Zealand chief executive Kerry Gregory is still on extended leave following a loss of confidence from Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden. The agency's board is continuing discussions with Gregory, while Darryl Purdy serves as acting chief executive.

How they headlined it

5:14am7:36am

1. RNZFri 23 Oct, 5:14am

   Where's the fire chief? FENZ boss still on leave after minister's rebuke (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesFri 23 Oct, 7:36am

   Top fire chief still on leave after rebuke by minister (opens in new tab)