Joanne Watson
Joanne Watson is the national secretary of the firefighters' union in New Zealand. She has been a vocal advocate for the safety and welfare of firefighters, particularly in relation to the seismic risks posed by the Tauranga Fire Station. Watson has highlighted the long-standing awareness of the building's precarious condition and has been instrumental in pushing for a faster timeline for its rebuild, emphasizing the stress and anxiety experienced by firefighters working in such a hazardous environment.
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Recent news mentions
Joanne Watson, the union president, opposed facilitation as Fire and Emergency had ample time to present a new offer.
Firefighters strike in Tauranga and Rotorua for better pay and staffing
New Zealand· 2025-10-17
Joanne Watson is the union president of the NZ Professional Firefighter Union who mentioned support staff would join firefighters on strike.
More than 1500 Bay of Plenty secondary teachers striking over pay disputeNew Zealand· 2025-10-14
Union national secretary Joanne Watson said Fire and Emergency had 'known for 15 years that Tauranga Station is a dire earthquake risk'.
Tauranga firefighters call for urgent rebuild of earthquake-prone stationNew Zealand· 2025-06-24
Union national secretary Joanne Watson said Fire and Emergency had known for 15 years that Tauranga Station is a dire earthquake risk.
Tauranga firefighters call for urgent rebuild of earthquake-prone stationNew Zealand· 2025-06-23