Takaka 39ers Firefighter Challenge Team

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Takaka 39ers are a group of local firefighters from Takaka, New Zealand, fundraising to compete in the 2025 World Firefighter Challenge in America, after winning the New Zealand National Relay title in 2024.

22/05/2026

Tākaka firefighters set blazing new records

We had one more coin to present this weekend. Mr Philip Woolf our now ex- Fire Chief of 1 month.He has supported the 39...
05/05/2026

We had one more coin to present this weekend. Mr Philip Woolf our now ex- Fire Chief of 1 month.

He has supported the 39ers through everything and pushed us to be better every time we step on to the track to represent our community and brigade but also reminded us to have fun.

His passion throughout the 39ers journey has been amazing and he has been one of our biggest supporters whether he’s been cheering from a far or cheering on the sidelines, or telling us to just ‘Learn the f**ing rules’. 49 years 1 month 1977-2026, is an amazing accomplishment and to serve that for one brigade is even more special, but we understand the time was right for you and the brigade is left in a good place.

Woolfy this is a small token for all your support. It was great to have you and Sara in Wellington with us for the weekend and we hope you are enjoying retirement.

This weekend at National’s, Tash and Grant surprised the boys with a presentation of our first 39er personalised Challen...
05/05/2026

This weekend at National’s, Tash and Grant surprised the boys with a presentation of our first 39er personalised Challenge Coin.

As part of the Takaka 39ers, this signifies the history being written. Everything they have been through and achievements accomplished. Never resting on their laurels.

Takaka 39ers give 100%. They train hard, they compete hard and fair, and they always encourage and support anyone competing, no matter of their ability.

Being a 39er doesn’t mean they need to be the best of the best, it’s about representing where they have come from and who they are to a high standard.

So it was fitting this weekend to give them their recognition as a team as they hold on to their National Relay title, receive a new National Relay record time and acknowledge the memories shared as Grant retires from the team.

Grant aka happy feet. What can we say. Man you are fast down that tower. 10 years of competing, training and being part of the combat family and extended family around New Zealand and the world, and that won’t change.

Rest up, recoup that knee and enjoy spending time with your family and we will see you at the next competitions I’m sure, there supporting and helping competitors as you do so well.

Neil Gardiner 39er #1
Grant Lawrence 39er #10
Kyle Gardiner 39er #12
Sam Goffriller 39er #16

Those that don’t know the meaning behind a challenge coin, it’s a customisable medallion that bears an organisations emblem and is carried by its members as a symbol of membership, pride, and camaraderie.

Challenge coins are primarily used to recognise achievement often present as an on-the-spot award for exemplary service, special accomplishments, or acts of bravery. Receiving one is considered a significant honor.

It builds morale and unity. It fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity amongst group members. It serves as a tangible reminder of shared experiences, missions, or training.

It commemorates events often given to mark specific milestones, anniversaries, retirements, or deployments. evoking a memory of a specific person , place, or event.

A few words from our own Neil Gardiner aka Gards:Firefighters Challenge Nationals Wellington 2026.Some very hard earned ...
04/05/2026

A few words from our own Neil Gardiner aka Gards:

Firefighters Challenge Nationals Wellington 2026.

Some very hard earned bling here. Kyle and Sam taking out the Open Male Tandem in a new NZ record time. Then Grant and I joined them and went on to take out the Open Relay title also in a new NZ record.

The pride I have in my fellow team members is immense. The work, dedication and sacrifices that each member has made on this journey that has been on-going for many years is hard to describe.

We have trained, bleed, traveled, fundraised and competed together as a close family with the same goals. To get the best out of each other and enjoy and share the fun with everyone who wants to play with us.

This journey has made us all a lot of great friends throughout NZ and the world. What started as a lonely journey many years ago at my 1st comp 2008 in ChCh has turned into 1 massive family party.

The most humbling moment of my life also happened on Saturday being awarded the Jackson White memorial trophy. Just being nominated was an honour but to recieve the award was very very emotional. Thank you all for your kind words and support. My belief is that if you make someone else's day a little better, then yours just became great.

Zoe, your tears of utmost joy and happiness when you completed your 1st indi made mine flow as well and made my weekend complete Thank you.

Finally to my old mate Grunta. You've been with me the longest in this sport we both love. 10 years of being bullied into trainings, competitions, aftermatch drinks/parties and other indescribable hijinks. Now you're hanging up the bunker gear to spend more quality time with the kids and Tash. We will miss you as a very intricate part of our team but also as a great team mate ready to throw your body on the line. I believe you will come back soon. So enjoy your rest and try not to eat too much of Tash’s great cooking.

Cheers everyone have a great off-season. Unless you're going to world's then continue the hard work and good luck.

03/05/2026

Sam’s Individual 1:32.14 mins.
2nd place - Open Male
Another amazing run from Sam.

03/05/2026

Gards’ Individual … 2:11.15 mins.
4th place - Male over 50s.
34th overall out of 79 competitors.
What a fantastic run. Another consistent run by our Gards.

It’s been an awesome weekend. 39ers topping the weekend with this record time.Thanks Air Palmy for pushing us to the lim...
02/05/2026

It’s been an awesome weekend. 39ers topping the weekend with this record time.
Thanks Air Palmy for pushing us to the limit.

Golden Bay Officially Results:

Sam Goffriller: 2nd place Individual 1:32.14 mins

Kyle Gardiner: 3rd place Individual 1:35.45 mins

Kyle & Sam Tandem ‘The Martian Legends’ 1st place 1:16.15 mins

Gards & Pete Tandem: ‘Mussels & Pipi’s’ 5th place 1:34.34 mins

Sheree & Pete Coed Tandem: ‘Pete & Peters’ 3rd place 1:45.00 mins

Takaka 39ers Relay: Gards, Grant, Kyle & Sam 1st place 1:15.25 mins

Takaka 39ers Aggregate Category: Kyle, Sam, Gards 2nd place 5:18.74 mins

A very special award tonight.The Jackson White Memorial Trophy for spirit of the challenge!Presented to our own Neil Gar...
02/05/2026

A very special award tonight.

The Jackson White Memorial Trophy for spirit of the challenge!

Presented to our own Neil Gardiner aka Gards.

You embody combat and give your all to everyone. A true legends.

It’s been an amazing weekend.

There will be more to come over the coming few days.

Massive congratulations Gards. Well deserved.

02/05/2026

Another amazing run from Kyle in an individual.
These boys are amazing.

02/05/2026

Wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!
They have done it AGAIN!!!!
Reigning National Champions AND another new National Record for the Takaka 39ers Relay. 1.15:25.

To say we are proud of their efforts is an understatement. They have worked so hard for this.

Congratulations to everyone who entered the track today and no matter whether you made a PB or not, you gave it a shot.

This competition is all about comradeship, encouraging others no matter their ability and giving it your all.

Bring on next season.

Address

Takaka Town District
7110

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+64212929492

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