An action-packed Emergency Services Day showcasing the vital work of Taupō's first responders is planned for this Sunday at Kaimanawa Reserve.
The annual event, previously known as Road Safety Day, has been rebranded and moved from its traditional May date to March to take advantage of warmer weather.
"Traditionally we used to do it every year in May to coincide with Road Safety Week, but the last couple of years it's been absolutely freezing," said Sarah Wraight, Road Safety Coordinator for Taupō District Council. "We thought we'd move it forward so that we'd have better weather and then when people come they'll actually stay around a bit longer."
The expanded event now includes eight emergency service organisations, with Land Search and Rescue, Coastguard, Civil Defence, and the Harbour Master joining for the first time alongside regular participants Fire and Emergency, Police, St John, and the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter.
One of the day's highlights will be a live demonstration where emergency services personnel extract someone from a crashed vehicle.
"FENZ will be using the Jaws of Life," Wraight told Lake FM. "It's just a good education opportunity for people. And that's always a highlight of our annual event."
Weather permitting, the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter is scheduled to land at the reserve around 10am, which Wraight describes as "always a big drawcard."
Visitors will have opportunities to explore emergency vehicles, chat with first responders, and participate in various activities. A fundraising sausage sizzle will also be available, with proceeds going toward a new winch for the Greenlea Rescue Helicopter.
"Showcasing the vital work these organisations provide is such a privilege," Wraight said. "It's a fun day out for the whole family but also a great reminder that we all need to take responsibility for our own safety."
The event runs from 9am to 1pm on Sunday, with a partial road closure in place to ensure safe crossing between the event and the Sunday market.
