The Queenstown and Frankton volunteer fire brigades are planning for their 150th anniversary in October 2013.
Brigades secretary Katherine Lamont said a "fairly quiet" dinner this Saturday would precede a gathering of 400 past fire members at next year's big event.
Ms Lamont said a dinner was held every year and recognition was given to members who had volunteered for certain lengths of time.
"They [firefighters] love doing what they do and it's so nice that they are really proud of getting their service awards," Ms Lamont said.
"Next year we will have a lot going on."
She said a book was under way to commemorate the 150 years and this weekend a formal photograph would be taken of the current brigades to be included in the book.
