Brian Pulefolau, recognized for his selfless commitment to the Pasifika community in South Auckland, has received significant accolades for his voluntary efforts. The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) recently honored his service as the Supervisor of Security Guard Forces at Papakura Military Camp.
Brigadier Rob Krushka, who awarded Mr. Pulefolau a Commendation for Exceptional Leadership, praised him for exemplifying the qualities desired in NZDF personnel. “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,” Brigadier Krushka stated.
Originally from Niue, Mr. Pulefolau has been with the NZDF since 2013, having served in various roles within Defence Security. Since 2018, he has led the team at the south Auckland camp. His responsibilities include ensuring camp security, managing guest reservations, overseeing emergency procedures, and providing training for his staff.
In addition to his security duties, Mr. Pulefolau has implemented various healthy lifestyle programs at the camp, focusing on financial wellness, physical fitness, and nutritious eating. These initiatives have positively impacted the health and well-being of the staff and their families, with many achieving milestones like purchasing their first homes.
“I truly care about my team and aspire to make a difference beyond my regular job,” Mr. Pulefolau expressed. He also shares life skills with his team, including fishing, using repurposed equipment from departing soldiers, resulting in plentiful catches of snapper and kahawai.
Apart from his role at the camp, Mr. Pulefolau is actively involved in the Pasifika community both locally and internationally. Raised in Manurewa, he dedicates his free time to community service, which Brigadier Krushka highlighted. “He is an active member of his local community, church group, sports teams, and the larger Pasifika community, in addition to being a loving and devoted father to his family,” he noted.
Mr. Pulefolau also manages initiatives that recycle goods for the Pacific. “I’ve started recycling civilian clothes from soldiers that would otherwise end up in a landfill and sending them to Fiji. Additionally, I’ve been recycling building materials to send to Tonga for rebuilding efforts after cyclones,” he explained.
Moreover, he co-founded the Pasifika Autism Support Group with his wife Betty to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the Pasifika community, providing a support network for families with autistic members. In recognition of his contributions, Autism New Zealand awarded him the Volunteer of the Year Award in 2016.