Ranfurly Fire Brigade has a new 4WD vehicle which is designed to get into places the big red engine cannot easily go.
Chief fire officer Willy Dowling said the brigade’s role now was less about fighting fires and more about being an emergency service response crew.
"We provide backup for St John, police, search and rescue and civil defence."
The ute, which was designed by the Ranfurly crew, cost about $100,000, Mr Dowling said.
At first he was concerned about raising that amount of money but the Maniototo community stepped up.
"There is a really cool community spirit here," hesaid.
The 4WD, which was designed to be versatile, has hefty tyres and a high clearance. Floodlights are mounted on the top and there is room to carry stretchers, cutting gear and anything else needed.
Extra crew could travel in the twin cab, he said.
It is fully equipped with everything except hoses — "it won’t put out a fire".
An open day was held last week to show the community the result of their hard work and generosity.
The names of those who had contributed to the new vehicle had been written on the locker doors, in recognition of their efforts, Mr Dowling said.
