Dannevire: Fire restrictions end but care is still needed

Rain has helped the Dannevirke region

While the fire danger index remains high, the restricted fire season throughout the district has been lifted.

"We made this decision because of the continuing autumn weather conditions and the fact there has been some substantial agricultural burn offs with no incidents," the Tararua District Council's principal rural fire officer Paddy Driver said.

Rain throughout the district has also helped, with 3mm falling at Te Rehunga on Monday morning and a similar amount during a thunderstorm in Dannevirke. Norsewood also had 3mm, but temperatures into the mid-20s by Monday afternoon had burnt off the moisture.

However, Mr Driver warns there is still a lot of long grass on the side of the roads and people intending to burn should be aware of this and take extra care.

"The weather could still change and raise the index to extreme over the next few weeks," he said.

"People who obtained permits, acted responsibly this season, with 118 permits issue in February, with no incidents, which is a great result for the district."

A restricted fire season still remains on all Department of Conservation land within the district including all reserves and beaches. This restriction continues all year round and a permit is required to light a fire in these areas.

Up to date fire status information and advice is available on the Tararua District Council website at www.tararuadc.govt.nz