Report reveals flaws in firefighter training and claims of beasting

RNZThe PostNZ HeraldOtago Daily TimesFriday 30 October 2026 · 4 outlets · 2 reports · updated

In this story Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Photo: Otago Daily Times (opens in new tab)

A Fire and Emergency NZ report has identified significant issues within firefighter training processes. The findings include claims that a military-style approach known as "beasting" is used to belittle recruits. In response, the organisation has initiated a training reset, though the report was not shared with the Minister of Internal Affairs.

How they headlined it

First reported by RNZ, Fri 30 Oct, 6:19am · 2 reports from 2 outlets over 2 hours
  1. RNZRNZ

    Firefighter training deficiencies report includes disputed claim of 'beasting' recruits (opens in new tab)

    Also on The Post (opens in new tab), NZ Herald (opens in new tab)

  2. Otago Daily TimesOtago Daily Times

    Claim 'beasting' recruits part of firefighter training (opens in new tab)