Firefighters from Mount, Papamoa, Pukehina and Te Puke have been working alongside helicopter crews in getting hands on experience in a rural fire setting.

Around 30 firefighters have been at the TECT All Terrain Park from 1pm today taking part in the training exercise.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council communications manager Peter Hennessey says the exercise involves helicopters flying low with monsoon buckets.

'A couple of helicopters are also involved as the exercise is all about ensuring the crews get hands on working with choppers in a rural fire setting – think choppers flying at low level with monsoon buckets.”

SunLive headed along to the park to check out the action.

Check out photos below.


Cheynne McCalman from Pukehina Fire Brigade climbing into the helicopter. Photos and video: Tracy Hardy.