The last time I saw Fred was nearly three decades ago he was teaching a few boys, whom I was looking after, how to fight bushfires. It was so interesting, I asked to learn too. He was a patient teacher, an inspiring motivator, an intrepid Firefighter, and a designer. Fred, the consistent optimist, was cheeky and made people feel included just by being in his company. His smile made you feel at ease and comfortable, like the feeling of 'Coming home to a warm fire'

Many wonderful memories of camping at Papamoa every Easter back in the day, fishing at the Kaituna Cut, sitting round the BBQ telling stories and laughing or those infamous nights of canasta in Turangi .. so many great times were had between the Newlands family and the Corfield family. Sending much love to Rima, Steven and your extended families. Fred was one in a million. Sadly missed but never forgotten xxx

Fred was a very giving man. He taught us toe-rags how to play squash in Turang, offering his time and skills. He had a heart of gold and always knew how to relate to kids with his cheeky and funny antics. My thoughts are with you Rima. ❤️ Condolences from Amanda Sweet.

Sadly, we are unable to attend your funeral personally to celebrate your life. Words cannot describe the joy you brought into our lives. Weather you have taken your first breath or your last, whether life was easy or hard, you had a rare gift you could relate to anyone. You never judged; you simply treated everyone the same. That is why you made so many friends, and why so many now feel the weight of losing you. The moments we shared with you, with our children and grandchildren, are treasures we will carry forever. The Wayjax competitions, the late nights at the fire station, the countless fishing trips filled with banter and laughter. I’ll concede you usually ended up with the biggest or the most fish, but that never stopped us from giving each other a hard time over a cold beer. Our dearest friend, we had many more trips planned, many more stories to make, but life had other plans. Still, the memories we created will remain with us always. Rest in peace, our good friend. Until we meet again — fishing rods ready. Shirley and Butch Waterhouse

Sadly, we are unable to attend your funeral personally to celebrate your life. Words cannot describe the joy you brought into our lives. Weather you have taken your first breath or your last, whether life was easy or hard, you had a rare gift you could relate to anyone. You never judged; you simply treated everyone the same. That is why you made so many friends, and why so many now feel the weight of losing you. The moments we shared with you, with our children and grandchildren, are treasures we will carry forever. The Wayjax competitions, the late nights at the fire station, the countless fishing trips filled with banter and laughter. I’ll concede you usually ended up with the biggest or the most fish, but that never stopped us from giving each other a hard time over a cold beer. Our dearest friend, we had many more trips planned, many more stories to make, but life had other plans. Still, the memories we created will remain with us always. Rest in peace, our good friend. Until we meet again — fishing rods ready. Shirley and Butch Waterhouse

Fred You had a passion for establishing the Maketu Rural Firefighting Party, with the primary objective of giving firefighters the opportunity to develop and strengthen their skills. Through your vision, initiative, and commitment, you helped create a foundation that has benefited generations of firefighters. Without your efforts, Maketu Fire Brigade would not be what it is today. Your hard exterior was matched only by your drive, determination, and dedication to the brigade and the community you served. These qualities earned the respect of those who worked alongside you and will remain a lasting part of your legacy. You will be remembered with gratitude and respect by all of us here in Maketu. Your contribution, leadership, and influence will not be forgotten. Rest easy.  From the. Maketu Fire  Brigade

What a wonderful man. So sorry to hear. We all had some fabulous times together in the early years in Turangi. He was always so happy and cheeky especially on the squash court. Thinking of you all at this sad time Lots of love xx