The Southern Lakes Fire Brigade is housed behind the Omori-Kuratau Community Hall and looks after our immediate area, as well as further afield as needed.

It supports the community with both firefighting and first response medical assistance.  

 

Defibrillators (AEDs)

There are Defibrillators at: Omori Store, Community Hall, Omori Ramp, Kuratau Ramp, Kuratau River mouth, and at the end of Riverpark Drive (by the Floating Rock Café).

For exact location of AEDs click here and put your own location in.

There are instructions on what to do and how to use the AED at each site.

Three of the AEDs have been funded by OKRA, with a welcome contribution from TDC.

 

Restricted Fire Season Begins 4 December 2024

As of 4 December 2024, we’re officially in a Restricted Fire Season. This means any open-air fires will require a permit. With the dry, hot conditions we’re experiencing, it’s crucial to keep fire safety top of mind to protect our beautiful region.  Here are a few reminders:

• Always check the fire season status at checkitsalright.nz before lighting any fires.

• Use safe, approved methods for cooking outdoors, like gas BBQs.

• Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure it’s completely extinguished before you leave.

If in doubt, don’t light it—better safe than sorry!  Let’s work together to reduce the risk of wildfires this summer.

 

Appliances & Help Us to Find You

The Southern Lakes Fire Brigade, or ‘Station 30’ has:

• The Big Yellow Rural Firefighting Truck – ‘3071’ (New in 2023)

• Smoke Chaser, the rural firefighting 4x4 Ute ‘3025’

• Medical First Response Unit – ‘3033’ (New in 2024)

 

For the best response (as we can’t help you if we can’t find you!), ensure:

• Property numbering is very clear and obvious from the street

• Access to the property is cleared

• Have someone on the street/at the property entry to direct if possible

 

Who we are & Volunteer

Currently we have 21 volunteers on our team, however if you are interested in joining get in touch with Chris Wells.

Roles vary from full-on rural firefighting, through to dedicated medical first response, and more administrative Brigade support.

Training is once a week (Tuesday for approx. two hours) – learn some life-long essential skills and support your community.

Contact: Rural Controller Chris Wells, Southern Lakes Fire Brigade chris.wells2@fireandemergency.nz

 

Donate

We are supported by FENZ, however any donations through the Trust will assist with vehicle and medical equipment.

Omori/Western Lake Taupo First Response Charitable Trust A/C 02-0560-0153240-00 Please include your name as a reference.  See below (link to this) for more information on the Trust.

 

Annual Events (dates/info may change from year to year)

• The Volunteer Brigade continues the tradition of Christmas Present Delivery on Christmas Day. If you’d like Santa and the fire truck to deliver a gift to your little ones, please deliver your parcel – clearly named and clearly addressed (maybe with a sticky note with phone in case we have any issues!) to the Omori Store before 4.00pm on 24 December. This is one of our favourite ways to spread holiday cheer, and we can’t wait to see those big smiles!

 

• The Turangi Food Bank Drive for Omori, Kuratau and Pukawa is between 5.00-6.30pm Friday 3 January 2025.

The variety of fire and first response vehicles will be making (a lot of!) noise in your street and when you hear us coming please bring your donations of food and/or money to the kerb.

Here are some ideas of what to donate: milk powder, rice, canned fruit, cereals, sugar, washing powder, dish-washing liquid, tea, coffee, soap, pasta sauce, noodles, flour, peanut butter, muesli bars, baked beans (all non-perishable goods) and of course MONEY.

Runners and drivers are required, and if you can help please contact Cath Carran at: Phone: 021 819857 or email cath.carran@xtra.co.nz

 

More Practical Safety Advice:

• Smoke Alarm Check: Make sure they’re working properly and swap out the batteries if needed. Remember to have alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and level of your home. If you haven't already, consider installing a heat alarm in your kitchen and laundry to avoid false alarms while keeping things safe. The Southern Lakes Fire Brigade is happy to help you install your smoke alarms (for a small donation).

 

• BBQ Cleaning & Safety: Remember to give it a regular thorough clean. Scrub off that grease and fat buildup, and take a moment to inspect your gas cylinders, hoses, and connections for any signs of wear or leaks. When setting up, make sure your BBQ is far away from overhanging branches, decks, or anything else that might catch fire. Safety first—so you can focus on flipping those burgers!

 

• Road Safety: As we know roadworks are everywhere. Please be extra cautious when driving around our area. Watch for signs, follow temporary speed limits, and expect a bit of a delay. With more cyclists and pedestrians out and about, let’s all share the road responsibly.

 

• Garden Cleanup: If you’re tidying up the garden, remember to dispose of green waste properly. Avoid burning leaves or clippings too close to your home or other structures. And while you’re at it, clear a space of at least a metre around your house and any outdoor heaters to minimize fire risks.

 

• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety: With so many lithium-ion batteries powering things like e-bikes, vapes, and power tools, it's important to handle them carefully. Always buy from reputable manufacturers and use the chargers that come with your devices. For e-bikes and e-scooters, charge them away from exits and store them in garages or sheds, not inside your home. Avoid charging small devices like phones or vapes on beds or couches, and try to unplug them once they’re fully charged. Also, keep batteries away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. If your device gets damaged, don't try fixing it yourself—leave it to the professionals.

If you ever encounter a device that smokes or catches fire, evacuate immediately and call 111. Don’t re-enter the building, as those fumes can be hazardous. For overheating devices, unplug them and move them outside, away from anything flammable. And remember, when it’s time to dispose of old batteries, never throw them in the trash. Take them to a recycling centre - just contact the local council to find a drop-off location.