Christchurch Airport Takes a Bold Step Toward Sustainability with New Electric Fire Truck

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.

(IN SHORT) Christchurch Airport has taken a major step in sustainability with the introduction of New Zealand’s first electric fire truck, the Rosenbauer RT. This addition is part of the airport’s broader initiative to transition its fleet to zero emissions by 2035. The airport also announced plans to introduce a second electric fire truck, the e-Panther, in 2026.

(PRESS RELEASE) Christchurch, New Zealand, 2025-Feb-18 — /Travel PR News/ — Christchurch Airport has made a significant leap in its sustainability efforts, today unveiling New Zealand’s first electric fire truck. The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology), which is also the first electric fire truck to be deployed at an airport in the Southern Hemisphere, highlights the airport’s commitment to cutting-edge safety and environmental practices.

This milestone is part of Christchurch Airport’s broader initiative to transition its fleet towards zero-emissions. With its corporate fleet already fully electric, the airport is now focusing on converting its emergency response vehicles, setting the stage for a complete zero-emission fleet by 2035.

Justin Watson, Chief Executive of Christchurch Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: “Safety and sustainability are core to everything we do here at Christchurch Airport. This electric fire truck is a perfect example of how innovation can drive both safety and environmental responsibility. Our teams are now equipped with state-of-the-art emergency response technology, ensuring the highest safety standards for our passengers, while taking another step toward our ambitious zero-emission target.”

The Rosenbauer RT will replace the existing diesel-powered fire truck, becoming the primary first-response vehicle for the airport. Although fully electric, the RT is equipped with a small backup range extender generator, which can be used in exceptional circumstances to recharge the batteries, ensuring continuous operation during prolonged emergencies.

Peter Moore, Fire Chief at Christchurch Airport, highlighted the truck’s impact on emergency response capabilities. “The RT fire truck is truly a game changer. Its speed, manoeuvrability, and advanced technology enhance our ability to respond more effectively. The training with Rosenbauer experts has been invaluable, and our crews are already seeing the benefits. This vehicle represents the future of firefighting at airports, and we’re proud to be leading the way.”

In a further commitment to innovation, Justin Watson also announced that Christchurch Airport will receive a second, larger electric fire truck, the Rosenbauer e-Panther, in 2026. The e-Panther will offer increased performance and capability, ensuring that the airport continues to set the standard for emergency response technology.

Arthur Weimer, Managing Director of Rosenbauer Australia, expressed pride in the partnership: “We’re honoured to work with Christchurch Airport on this groundbreaking project. We are confident that the RT fire truck will significantly enhance the capabilities of their fire service and improve safety outcomes for both airport staff and the travelling public.”

This latest investment is a significant part of Christchurch Airport’s broader sustainability agenda, as noted by Claire Waghorn, the airport’s Sustainability Transition Leader. “This is a major step towards decarbonising airport operations. It proves that even the most essential functions, like our fire service, can be safe and sustainable.”

The fire crew at Christchurch Airport has eagerly embraced the new vehicle, with Senior Firefighter Trevor Casey sharing his excitement: “Driving the RT has been an incredible experience. It’s incredibly smooth, responsive, and packed with features that will improve our operational efficiency. The training has been top-notch, and we’re all looking forward to using this technology to enhance our response times.”

With this new addition, Christchurch Airport reinforces its commitment to both safety and sustainability. This move further solidifies the airport’s leadership in providing safe, efficient, and eco-friendly solutions in the aviation industry.

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Source: Christchurch Airport

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