Leota Pauga Esitone Pauga, of Auckland, MNZM for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Leota Pauga Esitone Pauga was a career firefighter for over 40 years, and served as Assistant Commander and Area Commander. He co-founded Afi Pasefika (Pacific Fire), a national network of personnel who work with Pacific communities to deliver fire safety messages, foster recruitment, and provide career advice. He represented FENZ on the Te Kiwi Māia Advisory Group, and his leadership has enabled firefighters and their families to access specialised wellness and recovery support. He has strengthened the relationship between FENZ and the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority, and led a team of firefighters to Samoa as part of New Zealand’s contribution to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.