The Western Bay of Plenty Rural Fire Authority disappears this week, absorbed into the Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority.

Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority brings together eight rural fire authorities operating in the North Island in a move aiming to improve fire management and reduce costs.

Pumicleands zone manager Alan Pearce; same job, different logo.

The former Western Bay Authority, previously managed by Principle Rural Fire Officer Alan Pearce, is now one of eight ‘zones' within the wider group.

Now a zone manager Alan says he welcomes the change which will improve back-up for firefighters and offer strong leadership.

'This is in line with Government policy to work with a large rural fire district such as Pumicelands. It's in accordance with the current fire service review,” says Alan.

There will be no change to the way permits are applied for, or issued, says Alan.

They will keep the partnership arrangement between Western Bay of Plenty District and Tauranga City councils, the Department of Conservation, and Department of Internal Affairs.

While letterheads and logos may change, there will still be the same level of service for residents, says Alan.

'We are now part of one well-resourced organisation with strong governance and the resources to develop better systems and technology for rural fire. There's no duplication of processes, and less public confusion.

'Your fire permits will still be processed by Western Bay Council, under the same conditions as before and advice on rural fire can will be obtained by contacting the nearest Council office.”

The Western Bay Moana Rural Authority was dis-established on June 30 by unanimous vote. On July 1, the Authority, which looks after fire control in rural Western Bay and Tauranga City areas, became part of the Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority.