Waimarama Civil Defence receives boost

Kerry Stone (left) from Hastings Karamu Holden handing over the keys of the new ute to Waimarama Civil Defence leader Richard Gaddum.

Waimarama Civil Defence was given a boost today when the keys to a new set of wheels was handed over.

With the coastal town subject to storms, fires and floods Karamu Holden managing director Kerry Stone launched a five year deal giving the community a new Ute every six months.

"We just want to help the community where we can so we are pleased we can support the local volunteers in Waimarama as they all do a great job and the community is growing."

Waimarama Civil Defence leader Richard Gaddum who spear headed the project said there was a need for an upgrade with the coastal community often experiencing events or incidents off-road.

"We are so grateful for the generosity of Kerry and Karamu Holden as this new Ute means we will be able to carry more men, assist the rural fire team and get to places we couldn't before."

Mr Gaddum has been a part of the team for about 20 years and said a vehicle of this type was vital.

"If we had a Ute like this during the floods back in 2011 it would have been a great help, as it's ideal for getting people out of areas that get cut off."

The new vehicle will also be used by the Waimarama Rural Fire Service to assist with carrying officers and taking out additional pumps or tanks to any incidents.

Waimarama rural fire officer Peter Morrell said it was going to be a valuable addition and also thanked Mr Stone and Karamu Holden for donating the vehicle.

"We often have incidents along the beach or across paddocks so we need a good four wheel drive vehicle. Their generosity is overwhelming," Mr Morrell said.

The Ute also comes with a stinger, a loud speaker on top of the roof, which "blares" out emergency messages.

Mr Gaddum said it was so loud that people in the vehicle had to wear ear muffs.

"The message gets out there fast so it is very effective."

Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule and Waimarama councillor Bayden Barber were also there to welcome and celebrate the new Ute.

Mr Yule said it was wonderful that Mr Stone jumped on board as the whole community would reap the benefits.

"The Civil Defence team out here do a great job and that was highlighted with the recent water contamination. The volunteers all work exceptionally hard."

Mr Barber said it was great to see private businesses working in with the community and supporting the volunteers.

During the handover Mr Gaddum was presented on behalf of the Hastings District Council's emergency management team a plaque for his outstanding contribution to community preparedness.

His ability to notify people to boil water during the water scare and his fast and efficient action for a number of years was noted by council and the community.

"I am blown away but really it is a team effort not just me as everyone gets stuck in together. We are very lucky with the community we have out here," Mr Gaddum said.