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Firefighter's Obscene Gesture at PM Sparks Investigation

2/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is investigating a video showing a firefighter making an obscene gesture behind Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (New Zealand).
The footage, posted on TikTok, shows Luxon speaking with a man in a hi-vis vest near a Defence Force helicopter.
After Luxon waves, the firefighter turns toward the camera.
A Fire and Emergency spokeswoman said the department does not condone the behavior and noted professionalism concerns.

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Story summary

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is investigating a video showing a firefighter making an obscene gesture behind Prime Minister Christopher Luxon (New Zealand).
The footage, posted on TikTok, shows Luxon speaking with a man in a hi-vis vest near a Defence Force helicopter.
After Luxon waves, the firefighter turns toward the camera.
A Fire and Emergency spokeswoman said the department does not condone the behavior and noted professionalism concerns.