Scrub fires spark Wairarapa warning

CARELESS: Fire crews attended a suspicious fire on the foreshore of Ocean Beach, South Wairarapa on Monday. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Fire restrictions may be imposed early this year after an outbreak of fires across the district last weekend.

Rural fire crews fought five vegetation fires at Mataikona, Ngawi, Ocean Beach and Carterton, which were fanned by strong winds and dry conditions.

Wairarapa Principal Rural Fire Officer Phill Wishnowsky said while weather conditions caused issues, a large number of the fires were the result of people lighting up without checking the weather forecast and then leaving fires unattended before they were properly extinguished.

"If people cannot be responsible when lighting fires, then restrictions will be imposed to prevent these avoidable fires and the cost to the community that goes with them."

If people do not take more care when lighting fires, restrictions could be imposed by December 8, or sooner if weather conditions dictate the change, Mr Wishnowsky said.

During the August to October period rural fire crews attended two vegetation fires, five structural fires, three power line incidents, several motor vehicle crashes and medical assists. Call-outs ranged from a fire at Henergy Eggs, Masterton, to an alpaca that had become stuck down a bank.