A fire prevention provider is highlighting the need to protect marae which often contain irreplaceable carvings and artefacts.
Wormald says as most marae are constructed from timber and many of them are in remote locations, they are particularly vulnerable to fire.
"Protecting maraes from the risk of fire requires careful planning and technical knowledge. Consideration must also be given to a marae's heritage buildings which, in some cases, can be over 100 years old. Inadequate or improper fire protection can also expose the marae's community to danger, lead to potential injury or, in a worst case scenario, loss of life," a spokesman said.
According to the New Zealand Fire Service, fewer than 20 per cent of maraes have a fire safety system installed, and only recently a marae in Taumarunui was lost due to fire. To help marae trustees protect their buildings against the risk of fire, Wormald has this advice:
- Conduct a fire safety audit: A comprehensive fire safety audit will highlight potential fire risks around the facility and help to determine the fire protection solutions required. Fire hazards in maraes will vary depending on the marae facilities but, in general, will extend to the wharekai, wharenui and any ancillary structures.