Tighter fire restrictions for Western Bay

A blanket suspension has been placed on the issue of all fire permits in the Western Bay of Plenty sub-region from today.

Pumicelands Rural Fire Authority is enforcing the suspension following a steadily increasing fire danger level this month.

This means no fire permits will be issued for the foreseeable future, likely until at least after New Years Eve.

Moana zone manager Alan Pearce said current fire permit holders must strictly adhere to the conditions of their permits and refrain from open air burning where possible. No burning at night is permitted.

"Anyone intending to burn needs to carefully assess the conditions, taking into account the blustery winds being experienced across the District most days," he said.

"Ideally, burning should commence early in the morning, just after daylight and end by midday.

"If you have any doubt, don't light the fire."

Mr Pearce said the current fire risk for the District is 'extreme' and a total fire ban is looming.

Permits for traditional cooking fires and braziers will still be issued for specific dates during the festive season, such as Christmas and Boxing Day.

These may be approved on an individual basis with further restrictive conditions.

The suspension on all fire permits will remain in place until further notice

For advice and information on open air fires phone 07 571 8008.