They come for us in times of need.
The Havelock North Volunteer Fire Brigade is marking a hundred years of responding to emergencies, saving lives and property.
On Saturday it held an open day, with neighbouring fire fighting services assisting to celebrate the centenary.
While much younger than New Zealand's oldest volunteer fire brigade - Auckland was the first established in 1854 - Havelock North has given no less in protection and assistance to its community.