Ōpōtiki Firefighters Step Up for Sky Tower Challenge
- Holly Grundy
- May 27
- 1 min read
On Saturday, May 24, a total of 1,100 firefighters from 270 brigades took part in the annual Sky Tower Challenge, including three members of the Ōpōtiki Fire Brigade.
The event saw firefighters from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada race up 1,103 stairs inside Auckland’s Sky Tower, all while wearing full firefighting gear, to raise funds and awareness for Leukemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand.
For Senior Firefighter Tony Hatton, the challenge was a familiar one, having competed in the event for the past two years. But for Station Officer Robert Borrie and Deputy Chief Barry Hennessy, it marked their return to the challenge for the first time since 2014.
Hennessy said a personal experience motivated his return. “It wasn’t until a close family member was diagnosed with cancer that I decided to step up,” he said. “I thought it was a good way to show support, and also to raise some money.”
The trio completed the 51 flight climb in 20 minutes.
This year’s event raised more than $1.9 million nationwide. The Ōpōtiki Brigade raised $7,876 after just a month of fundraising.
“There were some really generous donations,” said Hennessy. “A farmer even gave us a load of firewood to raffle off. We were very pleased with the turnout and are really appreciative of everyone who donated.”
