Ban on fire permits in Taupo

Taupo District Council has temporarily stopped issuing fire permits.

Principal Rural Fire Officer, Phil Parker, says the dry weather means the risk of fire is just too high.

He says everyone needs to be careful about their surroundings.

"We've also had motorists going through our rural areas, that have flicked out cigarette butts and started grass fires on the side of the road.''

Phil Parker says in the case of the rural community, farmers should carry fire extinguishers, and check that electrical fences are clear from any material that may catch fire.