The Hokitika Fire Brigade was established in the year 1866. Mr. Mallard was its first captain, as well as one of its founders. The brigade has a complete plant, including a steam engine, and two manual engines, all valued at £1000. Several concrete tanks and wells, together with the water of the Hokitika river, serve for fire purposes. There are three fire bells, and a night-watchman is one duty from 11 p.m. till 6 a.m. The brigade is supported by grants from the Borough Council, and voluntary subscriptions; and the annual expenditure, including the salary of the night-watchman, who is an officer of the Council, is about £250. Officers for the year 1905: Messrs H. L. Michel, captain: W. Thompson, lieutenant; A. A. Andrewes, might-watchman.