It seems the lengths Phil Parker will go to in order to get new equipment for Taupo's Rural Fire Service knows few bounds.
After two years of getting his gear off to raise money for the service, of which he's the principal firefighter, this year Phil Parker came up with the
idea of trading clothes for body paint in a bid to spark attention and raise money.
A group of nine from the team, including Mr Parker, stripped down to pose for the popular calendar which will this year help to raise funds for new fire fighting equipment.
Mr Parker said this year was "better and brighter" than the previous two.
"I thought what a great idea - it took us eight months to get it all set up and do it."
Mr Parker said the 2011 calendar featured some new faces, while fans of the calendar would recognise some of the other models.
While in the past some of the firefighters have been a bit reluctant, this year's idea got everyone's attention.
"Everyone was keen as. It's a once in a lifetime experience."
It took more than five hours of continuous painting by a dedicated artist to get the men calendar-ready.
The calendar, which had an "unusual creatures" theme, would be the first of its kind in the country.
"We felt we needed to reinvent the calendar and I think our loyal customers will be pleased with the results," he said.
"We have had a great time putting it together and hope the community enjoys it and supports the rural fire team by purchasing one or three."
He said they made fabulous Christmas presents and helped to fund equipment that otherwise needs to be funded by ratepayers.
Last year the profits went towards communication equipment.
The calendars will be available from Taupo District Council's Lake Terrace office and the Taupo i-Site Visitor Centre from early November and cost $10 each.
People can also register their names to pre-order the calendar.
