This research examines the economic and social value of volunteer fire brigades in small remote communities in New Zealand. Based on desk research, a survey and interviews, it describes and measures the non-monetary benefits that a volunteer fire brigade contributes to these communities and estimates the economic value added to them.

The paper demonstrates three key reasons that volunteer fire brigades (VFBs) contribute to the ongoing sustainability of small remote towns.

Firstly, a VFB provides security and protection for the property and person of residents in these areas by substantially reducing response times to fire, medical and accident emergencies. The economic valuation of this benefit is conservatively estimated at $79 million annually.

Secondly, the research describes how these brigades contribute to social cohesion and act as the social glue for retaining the community identity and spirit.

Thirdly, participating in a brigade assists in sustaining the quality of life for volunteers and their families by providing social opportunities and personal intrinsic value.

If the benefits associated with the second and third points were monetised it is likely that the economic value associated with VFBs would increase significantly.