Asked what made him him join the Dunedin Fire Brigade in 1967 at the tender age of 18, he said: "I was across the road, and thought I would have a look in.
"I didn't know where it was going to take me, but it has taken me on a great trip."
Mr Clements retired early in September, after 45 years' service, but will continue to volunteer for his local Waitati Volunteer Fire Brigade.
"I can't give all this away. That is just not possible after 45 years."
The varied job had taken him to the scenes of some of Dunedin's biggest fires, including the devastating teachers college fire in 1968, where "all we could do was pour water on it".
He was also sent to Christchurch, a day after the February 22, 2011 earthquake, where he offered peer support for firefighters.
Mr Clements said he wanted to use the skills developed during his work career, and would continue involvement with Habitat for Humanity, Victim Support and Moana House.
He planned to continue historical conservation work, which had taken him to many of the South's isolated spots. Working at Port Craig, near Tuatapere, was a particular highlight.
He was an active member of the Dunedin Fire Brigade Restoration Society, and had co-authored a book on the brigade's 150-year history.
"You are part of family here.
"You go away on trips together, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time."
