It's taken three months' worth of rain in less than three days - but fire restrictions in force since November have been lifted from most of the Far North.
From midnight on Monday, permits will no longer be required for fires in the open in the southern part of the Far North district.
But a restricted fire season - which means a permit is required for any fire in the open - will remain in force on the Karikari and Aupouri peninsulas, and the areas north of the Kaitaia-Awaroa Rd and SH10 between Taipa and Awanui.
Far North principal rural fire officer Myles Taylor said even in an open fire season, people should take commonsense precautions.
"If people are in any doubt, they should give the authority a call for advice. The onus is still on property owners to take reasonable care when lighting fires."
Restrictions have been in force in the Far North since November 29.
For more about fire permits go to www.fndc.govt.nz, click the "Services" tab and "A to Z Index".