Greetings to the Lake Ōkāreka community! It has been a busy couple of months for our brigade, with emergency responses ranging from life-saving rescues to community events. As always, we appreciate your vigilance, support, and commitment to keeping our little slice of paradise safe.
A Life Saved in the Forest
On February 25th, quick action and teamwork led to a remarkable outcome when a mountain biker suffered a cardiac arrest in the forest. Our team was first on scene, administering compressions, ventilations, and utilising our AED before ambulance crews arrived. Thanks to these efforts, the cyclist was successfully resuscitated. A powerful reminder of the importance of early recognition and bystander CPR.
If you’re out in the forest, knowing your exact location can make all the difference in a crisis. Should an emergency occur, call 111 immediately and contact the Mountain Bike First Response Unit at 0800 WHAKA1 (0800 942 521).
Rescue on the Lake Ōkāreka Walkway
On March 15th, we worked alongside ambulance crews to assist an injured walker on the Lake Ōkāreka track. Our emergency basket and stretcher became essential tools for safe extraction. A huge thank you to Ray Cook, whose barge ensured the patient’s transport was swift and secure.
A Life Saved in the Forest
On February 25th, quick action and teamwork led to a remarkable outcome when a mountain biker suffered a cardiac arrest in the forest. Our team was first on scene, administering compressions, ventilations, and utilising our AED before ambulance crews arrived. Thanks to these efforts, the cyclist was successfully resuscitated. A powerful reminder of the importance of early recognition and bystander CPR.
If you’re out in the forest, knowing your exact location can make all the difference in a crisis. Should an emergency occur, call 111 immediately and contact the Mountain Bike First Response Unit at 0800 WHAKA1 (0800 942 521).
Rescue on the Lake Ōkāreka Walkway
On March 15th, we worked alongside ambulance crews to assist an injured walker on the Lake Ōkāreka track. Our emergency basket and stretcher became essential tools for safe extraction. A huge thank you to Ray Cook, whose barge ensured the patient’s transport was swift and secure.
Kids' Raft Race – A Splashing Success!
March 24th brought our annual Kids’ Raft Race, an evening of creativity, teamwork, and plenty of laughs on the lake. The Lynmore Scouts turned out in full force, showing great skill and enthusiasm. Thanks to Sean Bowyer for barge support on the water. A special shoutout to Telfer Marine Rotorua for the fantastic prizes and to all the locals who cheered the young rafters on from the water. Events like this highlight the community spirit that makes Lake Ōkāreka special!
March 24th brought our annual Kids’ Raft Race, an evening of creativity, teamwork, and plenty of laughs on the lake. The Lynmore Scouts turned out in full force, showing great skill and enthusiasm. Thanks to Sean Bowyer for barge support on the water. A special shoutout to Telfer Marine Rotorua for the fantastic prizes and to all the locals who cheered the young rafters on from the water. Events like this highlight the community spirit that makes Lake Ōkāreka special!
Fire on the Walkway – Local Heroes Step Up
April 15th saw an unexpected threat—a vegetation fire along the Lake Ōkāreka Walkway. Thanks to two quick-thinking tourists who reported the incident and provided evidence to the police. Meanwhile, local runners Luka and Keegan stepped up in an extraordinary way, smothering the flames, preventing further damage. Their initiative is a prime example of community responsibility in action!
April 15th saw an unexpected threat—a vegetation fire along the Lake Ōkāreka Walkway. Thanks to two quick-thinking tourists who reported the incident and provided evidence to the police. Meanwhile, local runners Luka and Keegan stepped up in an extraordinary way, smothering the flames, preventing further damage. Their initiative is a prime example of community responsibility in action!
Fallen Trees on Tarawera Road – Drive Safe!
On April 28th, two large pine trees crashed on Tarawera Road near the Redwood Park subdivision. Unfortunately, two vehicles collided with the fallen trees, but thankfully, all occupants escaped injury. With autumn bringing unpredictable weather, it’s a timely reminder to stay alert, as rain, wind, fallen debris, and frost can all contribute to dangerous driving conditions.
On April 28th, two large pine trees crashed on Tarawera Road near the Redwood Park subdivision. Unfortunately, two vehicles collided with the fallen trees, but thankfully, all occupants escaped injury. With autumn bringing unpredictable weather, it’s a timely reminder to stay alert, as rain, wind, fallen debris, and frost can all contribute to dangerous driving conditions.
Final Thoughts
A massive thank-you to everyone who contributes to keeping our community safe, whether it’s reporting incidents, stepping in to help, or simply staying informed. If you'd like to get involved or have any questions for the brigade, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and we’ll see you around the community!
Kierin Oppatt - Chief Fire Officer
Lake Ōkāreka Volunteer Fire Brigade
027 777 5130 or [email protected]
A massive thank-you to everyone who contributes to keeping our community safe, whether it’s reporting incidents, stepping in to help, or simply staying informed. If you'd like to get involved or have any questions for the brigade, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and we’ll see you around the community!
Kierin Oppatt - Chief Fire Officer
Lake Ōkāreka Volunteer Fire Brigade
027 777 5130 or [email protected]
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