Volunteer firefighters are worried their numbers will dwindle as the population ages.
That group makes up 80% of the firefighting force in New Zealand.
How to attract and retain volunteers was debated at the annual conference of the United Fire Brigades' Association in Christchurch this weekend.
It seems there are plenty of people willing to take on the role as a full-time job.
But as the population continues to age and the number of people living in small communities decreases, volunteer brigades are facing a reduction in suitable candidates.
The association says fewer people are willing and able to work in volunteer fire brigades.
President Ross Ditmer began as a volunteer 25 years ago and is now chief fire officer of the Rangiora Volunteer Fire brigade.
He says one common way to recruit is for firefighters to look to their own family and friends.
Internal Affairs Minister Nathan Guy, told the conference the funding for volunteer brigades would increase this year by almost 7%.
But he acknowledged that funding alone is not enough to stave off a shortage of personnel.
However, Australian demographer, Bernard Salt, told the conference that a recession is a perfect time for fire brigades and other community organisations to boost their numbers.
He also advised the association to look to the new immigrant population to help fill volunteer roles.
