Karamea volunteer firefighters Ed Tinomana and Jason James will be presented with a Fire Service National Commander's commendation award tonight for rescuing a woman from a burning car last year.

Mr Tinomana, the Karamea Volunteer Fire Brigade's chief fire officer, and Mr James, a senior station officer at the brigade, were returning from a golfing holiday in early October, when the car in front of them disappeared from view near Hector.

When the pair came across the vehicle, it was on fire, with a young woman trapped inside. Mr James, who was only wearing civilian clothes, reached in and grabbed the woman's legs, and the pair pulled her free of the car. They then drove back to Hector to raise the alarm, as there was no cellphone coverage where they were.

Mr James sustained minor injuries during the rescue. New Zealand Fire Service Chief Executive / National Commander Mike Hall will present the Karamea pair with commendation awards at Karamea Fire Station at 7pm tonight.

The award is a rare distinction in the Fire Service, with only one or two typically given out each year. Mr Hall says the actions of the two firefighters met the high standard for a commendation award.

'Ed and Jason's swift thinking and courage exemplify the bravery and dedication to service of all New Zealand firefighters. Their only thought was to save a life, and they didn't go looking for recognition. Nevertheless, that recognition is well and truly justified'.