Honoured for keeping communities safe

Phil Parker being given a silver award by Civil Defence Minister Nikki Kaye for his contribution to Taupo's Civil Defence. Photo / Supplied

Taupo's emergency management officer has been honoured for 29 years of professional contribution to Civil Defence.

Phil Parker, of the Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, was given a silver award by Civil Defence Minister Nikki Kaye at a ceremony in Parliament House on Tuesday night.

Mr Parker was commended for evacuating Waihi Village and over 700 travellers stranded on Napier/Taupo Highway in 2009, putting an alarm and warning system on Mt Ruapehu and establishing various Safe Kids and Local Neighbourhood Series exhibitions.

Mr Parker said it was a big surprise and honour to receive the award. "I just enjoy doing the job and working with the Waikato group," he said. "It's really nice to be able to give assistance to someone you can see needing help."

Landing on Mt Tongariro just a few days after it erupted was a definite career highlight, he said.

"I've been really lucky to meet some absolutely incredible people over the years and have some amazing experiences that not many people get to have."

Ms Kaye said Mr Parker's work was "an enduring success".

"The people recognised have been crucial in preventing loss of life and protecting livelihood, and I was proud to honour their efforts and achievements," she said.

"[Mr Parker] has made an outstanding contribution to his district over a sustained and long period and for that he can be justifiably proud."

Mr Parker has also been team leader, qualified instructor and manager of New Zealand Response Team 6 since forming the team in 1986.

The team has won several first places in Northern Zone Rescue Competitions and third place in national competitions, while Mr Parker has won several team leader trophies and awards.