Kaitaia Operational Support

The Kaitaia Operational Support Unit was established back in 1967 (as Fire Police) with the membership manning the intersections of the towns main St when the siren sounded, clearing the way for the fire-fighters to respond un-impeeded. The members were originally local businessmen who shops were situated in the main street. This practice ceased in the mid-1980's and details of the present day unit are as per details beneath.
The Operational Support members consist of fully trained fire-fighters who have over a period of time transferred to the unit. This allows these very skilled and versatile members to respond as fire-fighters when the need arises. They have their own vehicle which is set up with equipment both for Operational Support duties (generator, lighting, safety equipment etc) and also for limited fire-fighting. During a year the Operational Support responses equates to in excess of 200 calls, making it a very busy unit.