Brian Pulefolau, who is well-regarded for his commitment to serving the Pasifika community in south Auckland, has been honored for his voluntary work over the years. The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) recently recognized his service as the Supervisor of Security Guard Forces at the Papakura Military Camp.
Brigadier Rob Krushka presented Mr. Pulefolau with a Commendation for Exceptional Leadership, praising him for embodying the qualities the Defence Force seeks in its personnel. Brigadier Krushka stated, “He is a symbol of professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty, representing the ideals and highest customs of the New Zealand Defence Force. He is a great ambassador and a proud member of the Security Guard Force leadership.”
Originally from Niue, Mr. Pulefolau joined the NZDF in 2013 and has held various roles within Defence Security. In 2018, he took on the role of Supervisor of Security Guard Forces at the south Auckland camp, where he is responsible for maintaining camp security, managing guest reservations, overseeing emergency procedures, and ensuring the proper training of his team.
Beyond his security duties, Mr. Pulefolau has implemented several health and wellness programs at the camp that focus on financial wellness, physical exercise, and healthy eating. These initiatives have positively impacted the long-term health of his staff and their families, with many achieving milestones such as purchasing their first homes.
Caring deeply for his team, Mr. Pulefolau expressed his desire to make a difference beyond his daily responsibilities. He also teaches life skills, including fishing, using recycled fishing rods and reels from departing soldiers. His team has successfully caught fish like snapper and kahawai.
In addition to his work with the camp, Mr. Pulefolau plays a significant role in the Pasifika community in Auckland and abroad. He is actively involved in various community initiatives, including coordinating programs that send recycled goods to the Pacific. He has started recycling clothing from soldiers for donation to Fiji and building materials for rebuilding efforts in Tonga.
Mr. Pulefolau co-founded the Pasifika Autism Assist Group with his wife, Betty, to raise awareness about neurodiversity and provide support for Pasifika families with autistic members. In recognition of his volunteer efforts, Autism New Zealand awarded him the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016.