Restructure for rural fire authorities

A move to streamline rural fire control throughout the North Island has resulted in end of the Western Bay Moana Rural Authority.

On July 1 the authority, which looks after fire control in rural Western Bay and Tauranga City areas, became part of the Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority.

The Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority brings together eight rural fire authorities operating in the North Island in a move aiming to improve fire management and reduce costs.

The Western Bay Authority, previously managed by Principle Rural Fire Officer Alan Pearce, is now one of eight 'zones' within the wider group.

Alan, taking on the role of Zone Manager, welcomed the change which would improve back-up for fire fighters and offer strong leadership, he said.

"This is in line with Government policy to work with a large rural fire district such as Pumicelands. It's in accordance with the current fire service review."

The Western Bay Moana Rural Authority was dis-established on June 30, by unanimous vote.

There would be no change to the way permits were applied for or issued, Mr Pearce said.

"We are now part of one well-resourced organisation with strong governance and the resources to develop better systems and technology for rural fire. There's no duplication of processes, and less public confusion."

Mr Pearce said they would retain the partnership arrangement between Western Bay of Plenty District and Tauranga City councils, the Department of Conservation, and Department of Internal Affairs.

For residents, while letterheads and logos may change, there would still be the same level of service.

"Your fire permits will still be processed by Western Bay Council, under the same conditions as before and advice on rural fire can still be obtained by contacting the nearest Council office."