Christchurch Airport unveils New Zealand’s first electric fire truck
Share
Christchurch Airport has taken another significant step in its commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, taking possession of New Zealand’s first electric fire truck today.
The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) is also the first electric fire truck at any airport in the Southern Hemisphere, reinforcing the airport’s leadership in sustainable airport practices.
The arrival of the new vehicle is part of the airport’s broader fleet transition programme. With the corporate fleet already 100% electric, the airport is now transitioning its emergency response vehicles as part of its commitment to a zero-emission fleet by 2035.
Airport chief executive, Justin Watson, says the addition of the Rosenbauer RT reflects the airport’s ongoing investment in world-class safety and sustainability solutions.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do, and this new truck ensures our emergency response teams have cutting-edge equipment to keep the airport community safe.
“At the same time, this is another step towards our zero-emissions goal. Innovation and responsibility go hand in hand. By investing in world-class emergency response technology, we’re ensuring our airport remains at the forefront of both safety and environmental leadership.”
At the launch event, Justin Watson also announced that Christchurch Airport has signed a deal with Rosenbauer to take delivery of a second, larger e-Panther electric fire truck in 2026.
The e-Panther is a world-class firefighting vehicle, offering increased levels of performance and capability, ensuring the airport remains at the forefront of emergency response innovation.
The RT fire truck will serve as the airport’s primary first-response vehicle, replacing the existing diesel truck that handles most emergency call outs across the airport campus.
While the RT is a 100% EV it has a small back up range extender generator that can top up the batteries in exceptional circumstances, ensuring continuous operations even in prolonged emergency situations.
