The Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade responded to the crash, but took to social media to ask the public for empathy after being confronted by some members of the public at the scene.
“When tragedy strikes within our community like yesterday, the first point of call is often our volunteer fire brigade,” the volunteer brigade said.
“These men and women drop everything during their fulltime jobs, their families, their routines to answer the call for help.”
The brigade said emergencies were chaotic, stressful and sometimes terrifying, and they close roads or secure scenes to keep everyone safe.
“What saddened our people out at the event yesterday was the lack of empathy from others and the anger directed at them.
“This is not who we are. Yes, life is stressful at the moment and we are all going through something, but when tragedy strikes, this is the time to stop just for a moment, breathe in and think outside of ourselves.”
The brigade said community was about pulling together and helping those in times of need.
“All we ask is this – when the team tells you to stop, wait, or take a detour, please don’t be a dick.
“Don’t harass or yell at the volunteers on the ground. That isn’t cool at all.
“These men and women are selfless. They give their time, safety, and comfort so others can be safe.”
The brigade asked the local community for patience, empathy and humanity at scenes like that of yesterday in return for them showing up so others can be safe.
