Jim Shaw has been awarded a double gold star by the United Fire Brigade Association for achieving the milestone.
The 70-year-old told the Otago Daily Times the brigade was ``fun'' to be a part of, despite the work its members were called on to do.
``Everything you do at the fire brigade is different. The equipment's modernising, techniques are changing, so it's never boring.
``And I can adapt to constant change - I don't mind it.''
Mr Shaw said he was fortunate to be able to deal with the sometimes horrific incidents firefighters were confronted with.
``I'm a bit lucky it doesn't get to me. I don't know why. It's just something, dare I say it, the way it is in life.
``There have been a lot of sad moments, but I wouldn't leave the service because of it.
``Tomorrow's always another day - that's my philosophy in life.''
Mr Shaw, who was also honoured by the Queenstown Lakes District Council at a presentation earlier this month, joins former Queenstown Volunteer Fire Brigade chief Bob Robertson in a club of two.
Mr Robertson achieved the milestone in 2009.
Mr Shaw said if compulsory retirement at 65 had not been abolished a few years ago, he would never have reached the mark.
He joined the brigade in 1967, at the age of 20, after completing his mechanic's apprenticeship at his parents' garage and road transport business in the township.
Two years later, he became probably the youngest brigade chief in the country after the incumbent stepped down and senior members conspired to place him in the role.
He remained chief for 26 years until 1995.
Unlike many small town brigades, Arrowtown's was in good heart with a current roster of 25, he said.
Although there would eventually come a day when he stepped down from operations, he would stay on as a volunteer support officer with ``a couple of little jobs to do''.
