A fundraising group on the western shores of Lake Taupō have raised $90,000 to provide the area with a crucial lifeline in the form of a new first response vehicle.
The Western Lake Taupō Charitable Trust reached its fundraising target with assistance from the local community, allowing them to buy and fit out a Mitsubishi Triton.
The vehicle has been kitted out with a special canopy to house specialist equipment, as well as lights, sirens, radio and signage.
The vehicle will be available for use by the Southern Lakes Volunteer Fire Brigade, which has five fully-trained members and seven others who are undergoing training.
A statement from the trust said the first response vehicle would assist with its important work.