Fires restricted in Waikato and Northland

A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a fire permit authorized by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Waikato district manager Daryl Trim says the fire risk in the region has continued to increase despite unseasonably cooler days and some rainfall.

“In these conditions, we want to help landowners safely manage their fires to limit the risk of fires spreading out of control,” Trim says.

Northland district manager Wipari Henwood says very little or no rain is predicted in the region over the next 10 days, with strong southwest winds set to continue.

“Grass is drying out and forecast spike days – where fire risk rises sharply – increase the difficulty of controlling fires quickly once they have started,” he says. 

The Wairarapa and Canterbury have shifted from a prohibited fire season into a restricted fire season.

Wellington District community risk manager Phil Soal says that recent rainfall and cooler conditions over the past couple of weeks have reduced the risk of wildfire in the Wairarapa.

“We really appreciate the cooperation we’ve had from people in Wairarapa while fires were banned,” he says.

“We weren’t called out to any major vegetation fires over the holiday break, and we’re very pleased about that,” he adds.

“However, while people can light fires again, they still need to take sensible precautions – particularly to avoid burning if strong winds are forecast.

“Make sure you have sufficient water or extinguishers to put the fire out properly, and keep checking that it’s out afterwards.”

Meanwhile, evacuations are underway for several homes close to vegetation fires south of Whangarei.

FENZ crews were called to the fire on Whangarei Heads Rd between Onerahi and Tamaterau around 2.15pm this afternoon.

FENZ says there is significant smoke in the area and people affected by the smoke should close windows and doors and reduce outdoor exercise.

To apply for a fire permit, visit checkitsalright.nz.