Years of dedication to Civil Defence recognised

(From left) Tauranga mayor Greg Brownless, Mark Gatens, and Director Ministry Civil Defence and Emergency Management Sarah Stuart-Black. Photo/Supplied

Rotorua's Mark Gatens was one of 19 of the region's Civil Defence and Emergency Management responders and staff recognised for their long service on Friday.

Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management Director Sarah Stuart-Black presented the recipients with their long service awards, with some being recognised for more than 30 years of work in the sector.

Mr Gatens has served for 10 years, joining New Zealand Response Team 15 in 2006.

He has been deployed over the years to help in many situations from recoveries to weather events.

Mr Gatens is a committed member of the team, raising funds, organising events and participating in community resilience projects.

Mr Gatens was recognised along with people from Tauranga, Opotiki, Whakatane, Kawerau and Western Bay of Plenty.

Tauranga Mayor Greg Brownless said it was an honour to be able to recognise the years of service.

"Whether they have responded locally or nationally, given their time voluntarily or even if they are part of the engine room making sure our communities are able to get through a disaster, what they have done is remarkable.

"Without the people in this room, our local communities wouldn't be what they are today."