Restricted fire season for Tairāwhiti District

20 December 2022

The Tairāwhiti District will move to a Restricted Fire Season at 8am on Thursday 22 December until further notice.

Tairāwhiti District Manager Peter Clark says there are areas within Tairāwhiti which are drying out quickly despite pockets of heavy rain.

"With an influx of people expected to come into the district for Rhythm and Vines and other festivals, we want to reduce the fire risk as much as possible," Peter Clark says.

"Freedom camping throughout the district increases the risk of fire - it only takes one spark to start a devastating wildfire.

"There are also piles of driftwood on the local beaches which will remain there over summer, which could add fuel to a fire and make it spread more quickly."

A restricted fire season means you can’t light an open-air fire in the area without a permit. You will also have to comply with specific conditions on your permit so you can light your fire safely. If you need to apply for a permit, go to ‘can I light a fire’ on www.checkitsalright.nz .

Peter Clark also reminds campers cooking outside to make sure there is nothing close by that could catch fire.

"Once you’re done with your campfire, pour water over it and ensure it is completely out," he says.

"If you’re using a BBQ, make sure it’s clean, there are no gas leaks and you’re using it in a well-ventilated area away from anything that could catch fire.

"If we follow these tips, we have a better chance of keeping Tairāwhiti fire-safe this summer."