Manawatū-Whanganui district moves to restricted fire season

For more info on how to stay fire safe this fire season head to www.checkitsalright.nz. Photo / Bevan Conley

If it's hot and windy, do not light a fire.

That is the directive from Fire and Emergency New Zealand as all of the Manawatū-Whanganui District moves to a restricted fire season from 8am on Wednesday, February 2.

A restricted fire season means anyone planning on lighting an open-air fire will need a permit and must follow the conditions of their permit. You can apply for a permit at checkitsalright.nz.

But Fire and Emergency Manawatū-Whanganui district manager Nigel Dravitzki said if it's hot and windy, do not light a fire, even if you have a permit.

"Fires could start and spread very easily if people aren't careful and don't follow our safety advice."

The Ruapehu District has been in a restricted season since January 28, 2022.

Dravitzki said the hot and dry summer had caused the pre-determined fire plan triggers for a restricted fire season to be met.

Manawatū-Whanganui District Manager Nigel Dravitzki. Photo / Bevan Conley

"The conditions are rapidly drying out, leading to a high fire risk. By moving to a restricted fire season we can help to reduce that risk," he said.

Everyone planning on lighting fires should check the weather conditions.

For more info on how to stay fire safe this fire season head to www.checkitsalright.nz.