A customised Isuzu D-Max 4x4 double cab smokechaser that's due to arrive in the country this month is destined for the Coromandel.

It will be the first of its kind in New Zealand and features a fire ‘pickup' unit machined out of engineering grade heat-resistant plastic designed by Thames Valley's Principal Rural Fire Officer and engineers at Aviation Fire Services.

The fire pickup unit which will be installed behind the cab of the customised Isuzu D-Max 4x4. Photo: TCDC

Principal Rural Fire Officer Paul Shaw says the smokechaser which is heading to Colville been specifically designed to carry the rural fire equipment needed by volunteer forces.

'Our team measured and weighed all the equipment needed by our rural volunteer fire forces and worked with the engineer to design the unit to fit the equipment,” he explains.

The Smokechaser will carry on-board water, a pump and hose unit, and portable high pressure and volume pumps, plus equipment for fast attacks to stop small fires before they reach the bush and forest. The unit will also attend motor-vehicle accidents.

'With the equipment we can carry, we can get to smaller fires faster on these roads than the larger fire trucks.”

Once the Isuzu arrives the pickup unit will be installed behind the cab by Prestige Diesel and Otahuhu's Marine's Aviation Fire Services which holds the maintenance contract for Auckland Airport's fire appliances.

While awaiting the pickup unit, the Isuzu's body has been fitted out with the decals, radios, lights, siren and PA unit, adds Paul.

THE TOP 10 SPECIFICATIONS OF THE NEW SMOKECHASER:

1. Polypropylene co-polymer body
2. Constructed using 15mm floor and12mm wall panels
3. Integral shelving
4. Mounts straight on to the vehicle chassis. No sub frame required
5. Lightweight
6. In addition to being heat resistant, it is also corrosion resistant – able to withstand a variety of aggressive chemicals – and durable; will not crack like GRP or corrode like metal
7. Impact resistance and reparability – can be welded in the event of damage
8. Low maintenance
9. Excellent internal visibility and sound insulation
10. 100% recyclable at end of life