Brian Pulefolau, already celebrated for his dedicated service to the Pasifika community in South Auckland, has recently been recognized by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) for his contributions as the Supervisor of Security Guard Forces at Papakura Military Camp.
Brigadier Rob Krushka presented Mr. Pulefolau with a Commendation for Exceptional Leadership, highlighting his embodiment of the qualities the Defence Force seeks in its personnel. Brigadier Krushka praised him as a model of professionalism and commitment, stating that he represents the ideals and standards of the NZDF and serves as a proud leader within the Security Guard Force.
Originally from Niue, Mr. Pulefolau joined the NZDF in 2013 and has taken on various roles within Defence Security. He has been supervising the Security Guard Forces at the South Auckland camp since 2018. His team is responsible for various security tasks such as managing guest access, overseeing emergency procedures, and ensuring that all staff are properly trained.
In addition to his security duties, Mr. Pulefolau has initiated healthy lifestyle programs at the camp. These initiatives, which include financial wellness training, exercise, and nutrition workshops, have significantly benefitted the well-being of his team and their families, with many of them achieving milestones such as purchasing their first homes.
“I genuinely care about my team and aspire to make a positive impact beyond my daily duties,” Mr. Pulefolau stated. He also teaches life skills, including fishing, using recycled equipment from departing soldiers, leading to successful catches of snapper and kahawai.
Mr. Pulefolau actively engages with the wider Pasifika community in Auckland, throughout New Zealand, and internationally. Raised in Manurewa, he is known for his willingness to volunteer his time, a quality noted by Brigadier Krushka. The Brigadier referred to him as a committed member of his local community, church, and sports teams, as well as a devoted father.
Furthermore, Mr. Pulefolau is involved in programs that facilitate the recycling of goods to the Pacific. He has been collecting civilian clothing from soldiers for donation to Fiji and has initiated efforts to send building materials to Tonga to assist in rebuilding homes damaged by cyclones.
Together with his wife Betty, he co-founded the Pasifika Autism Assist Group, which raises awareness about neurodiversity and offers support to Pasifika families with members on the autistic spectrum. In recognition of his volunteer work, Autism New Zealand honored Mr. Pulefolau with the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016.