The Fire Service will remain underfunded regardless of announcements made by the government today, says New Zealand First.

Urban Search and Rescue will become part of the Fire Service, alongside rural and volunteer brigades.

'This is the seventeenth review in 21 years and still we see a shortfall in funding to support the Fire Service,” says Spokesperson for Internal Affairs Clayton Mitchell.

'The move to include drivers with third party insurance in the fire levy contribution makes good sense but just won't go far enough.

'There will still be a shortfall in funding to adequately support the Fire Service yet it makes a huge contribution. Beyond attending fires, vehicle accidents and helping during times of extreme weather, the Fire Service is a lifeline for towns and rural communities.

'Volunteers will still be stretched to the limit and left to fundraise for the essentials they need,” says Mr Mitchell.

'After so many reviews over such a long period of time it is shameful that the services provided by fire teams are still undervalued by this government.”

SOURCE: Office of Clayton Mitchell