19/12/2025
Well… that’s a wrap on 2025 💙 The office keys have been hung up, the manikins deep cleaned and stored. The computers shut down and unplugged. The christmas cheer shared as a team.
We’ve been reflecting on the moments that made us smile, stretched us, and reminded us why we do what we do. Like most years, it’s been a mix of hard mahi, beautiful moments and people that make our world glow brighter.
Here are a few that stood out for our team:
✨ Growing the CFA whānau
One of our biggest joys this year was welcoming Jodie officially into the City First Aid family. Watching her step into the role, bring her energy, and connect so naturally with learners has been an absolute highlight for all of us.
✨ Learning that adapts, includes, and inspires
Working alongside IDEA Services and teaching first aid to their day programmes was genuinely special. Seeing how learning can be adapted, and how confidence grows when people feel supported. This reminded us that first aid really is for everyone.
From classrooms to scenarios in a waka on the Avon, these sessions were some of the most fun and meaningful we’ve had all year.
✨ Busy days and good challenges
Being busier in the classroom mid-year, brought its own satisfaction.
✨ FAB courses, walking clubs, and new perspectives
Some of our favourite courses this year were the FAB sessions, including a trampingclub where curiosity and engagement were a real highlight for Nick.
And outside the classroom, there were some huge personal milestones too-including earning a private pilot’s licence and discovering New Zealand from the air. What a way to see our beautiful motu/country.
✨ Serving where it matters
Travelling to Kaikōura to support fire-affected communities by providing a first aid tent was a powerful reminder of the role we can play beyond the classroom, showing up when people really need support.
✨ Behind the scenes strength
This year also saw big progress in strengthening our systems and foundations, putting CFA in a really solid position moving forward. Add in time away on holiday, more moments with family and grandkids, and opportunities to serve through our work-and it’s been a year of quiet wins as well as visible ones.
✨ And the honest truth…
It’s been a tough year for some of us. But it’s also been peppered with moments that shine brightly. The work we do together, and the people we get to teach and learn alongside, make it deeply rewarding-and help us keep showing up with a smile, even on the hard days.
To everyone who trained with us, worked with us, trusted us, or cheered us on, thank you. We’re proud of this year, proud of our team, and grateful for the community around us.
Here’s to rest, reflection, and stepping into 2026 ready to paddle on together 🌊💙
