When Abbott Auckland broker Chontelle Asiata-Jones pulls on her firefighting gear lately, she’s not only training as a volunteer with the Helensville Fire Brigade, she’s preparing for one of the most physically demanding charity events in New Zealand.
On Saturday 24 May, Chontelle will join hundreds of firefighters from across New Zealand and around the world for the 2025 Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, a 328-metre vertical climb – that’s 1,103 stairs up 51 storeys in 25 kgs of firefighting kit – to raise money and awareness for Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand (LBCNZ).
“It’s tough – the gear’s heavy, you’re out of breath and the stairs never seem to end. But we climb for those who can’t,” says Chontelle.
Now in its 21st year, the Sky Tower Challenge is the brainchild of firefighter Tony Scott and has become a powerful symbol of support for the eight Kiwis diagnosed every day with a blood cancer or related condition. Since the first event in 2005 raised $17,500, the challenge has grown to raise more than $1 milllion annually, with more than $5 million raised to date for advocacy, support and research.
“Almost everyone knows someone who has been affected by blood cancer and blood disorders, but Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand is entirely dependent on fundraising. This is my way of showng up for them.”
Chontelle’s participation in the challenge is a reflection of her unwavering commitment to service and community, whether that’s protecting what matters most for clients in her insurance broking role, volunteering as a first responder in the Helensville community, or putting her body and breath to the test in support of LBCNZ and the Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge.
To support Chontelle’s climb for a cause and help fund this life-saving work, you can donate here, or visit Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand to find out more about what they.
