High winds spark hold on Bay fire permits

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Less than a month into the Western Bay of Plenty's Restricted Fire Season a hold is being placed on fire permits due to unexpected weather conditions.

The high wind rippling through the region this week has forced Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority Moana zone manager, Alan Pearce, to stop issuing permits from today.

"Wind is a major concern when it comes open air fires - things can get out of control very quickly,'' Mr Pearce said.

"Currently wind conditions are much worse than they normally are at this time of year, and that's paired with some dry weather.

"That's why we're being precautious and not issuing any more fire permits until things have calmed down."

Mr Peace said he wished to remind people this is not a 'total fire ban' but anyone with a current fire permit needs to check the conditions of their permit before lighting any fires.

"Residents with permits should be aware they will likely contain conditions such as only burning in very light winds.''

Conditions will be monitored and reviewed daily.

The Restricted Fire Season began on October 1 and lasts until April 30, 2016.