Two teams of firefighters will now become one team of 52 after an historic signing amalgamation earlier in the week. 

The signing, at the Ranfurly Fire Station on Monday, sealed the amalgamation of the Ranfurly urban volunteer brigade with the Maniototo component of the Omakau-based Blackstone volunteer rural brigade.

FENZ Region Manager Mike Grant says the amalgamation will bring together 52 volunteer firefighters into one team, adding 30 volunteers to Ranfurly’s brigade. 

The two teams of firefighters will now become one.

“There have been other examples of urban and rural fire brigades working together, however this is significant because of the number of firefighters that are now part of the one brigade. 

“There is a cap on the size of a brigade, which has been lifted in this case.” 

The amalgamation will mean a bigger, stronger brigade will serve the Maniototo Basin community, which is a small but widespread rural area.

“The brigade will offer a broader set of skills and resources in supporting the community and visitors in the area.” 

The brigade will service a large area which is experiencing significant growth, which has called for a greater strength and coordination of emergency services. 

Maniototo is an elevated inland area in Otago, that has several Department of Conservation reserves, as well as the Central Otago Rail Trail and natural sites that are visited by many. 

Central Otago District Mayor Tim Cadogan at the ceremony. 

“There are two state highways running through the area, and with steady rural growth, the population is building,” Mike says. 

“Ranfurly Brigade averages 40 – 70 calls each year and is backed up by the neighbouring Naseby Brigade which yearly, averages 20 – 30 calls. 

“The area is also experiencing a growth in an aging population with many retirees moving for the slower pace of life which the Maniototo brings.”

Photos The Central App.