Kevan Old - Central Taranaki Automotive

Meet the Auto Technician serving his community as Deputy Chief Fire Officer

Kevan Old is the owner-operator of Central Taranaki Automotive which he runs with his wife Wendy.

They’ve run their business in Stratford for more than 10 years and are proud supporters of their local community. Their customers tend to agree with one sharing in a review “You guys are amazing, Kevan you have a set of wings and a halo. Thank you so much for rescuing me today ( . . . )”.

As well as rescuing people from their automotive woes, Kevan is also Deputy Chief Fire Officer at the Stratford Volunteer Fire Brigade. He’s served with the brigade since 1996 and is currently the only self-employed volunteer.

As part of Fire and Emergency’s commitment to celebrate people and organisations who employ volunteers, we chatted with Kevan about his experience as a self-employed volunteer.

• What were your initial thoughts around volunteering?
  I wanted to be part of a team and make a positive impact on the lives and wellbeing of the people who live in and around our community. 
  
  
• What is the reality? 
  We often see people when things are not going well for them - at incidents that are not good. We do our best to achieve a positive outcome out of each situation. Having strong support from our families and the brigade is important. It helps us get through the tough times. I believe that in any situation, we turn out to each call with the aim of making a difference.
  
  
• What are the pros and cons of being a self-employed volunteer?
  My wife Wendy and I run our business together and have found that we get support from our local volunteer firefighters as well as those throughout the district. 
  
  We believe the local community gets behind our business, acknowledging our commitment to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and the impact we have in our community. We employ seven staff who support my volunteering. This allows me to attend incidents. There have been occasions when I am unable to attend call outs during the day due to the heavy workload.
  
  
• What would be your advice to another self-employed business owner thinking of volunteering? 
  Being a volunteer requires time, so the ability to balance family, work and the brigade is important. It takes a special person and a huge commitment to do all three while making a positive impact in and around the community.  
  
  Hold your head high, be positive and remember we are stronger together. 

Kevan Old being celebrated for 25 years of service to the Stratford Volunteer Fire Brigade.