KEY POINTS:
A 67-strong team of New Zealand firefighters are preparing to leave for Australia next week.
The initial group of 44 returned last Saturday after 17 days battling wildfires ravaging Victoria.
Among those heading back for a second crack at the fires will be Kevin Ihaka, Rob Clark and Darvi Henry. The Kiwis will be split into two groups, with Mr Ihaka in charge of one and Mr Clark leading the Northland crew.
Other Northlanders in the second deployment include Jared Heape, Murray Johnstone and Larry Purdie. They leave for the month-long assignment on January 3.
Mr Ihaka, a firefighting veteran of 25 years' experience, said there was a possibility of a third Kiwi deployment after they return.
He said the 67 firefighters wouldn't know which town they would be based in until the day of departure.
"The number of people going from Northland this time is less because we have to ensure there are enough people here. Also it's good to change crews around so they can get a break," Mr Ihaka said.
"The last time we had 10 firefighters from Northland out of 45 from around the country ... Northland crews have had a busy couple of years and the experience they've got has really helped them fighting fires in difficult situations."
He said Northland firefighters were able to handle situations such as those in Victoria because many were involved in forestry work which kept them fit.
"A lot of tree felling and heavy machinery work is required in Melbourne, unlike here where fire is fought using water."
Mr Ihaka said working in other countries was a good chance to make new friends and do something adventurous.
The fires are burning across one million hectares and being fought by 4000 Australian firefighters.
- NORTHERN ADVOCATE (WHANGAREI)
