Fire ban remains in place for all beaches in Horowhenua and Manawatū

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has moved Rangitikei, Manawatu and Palmerston North rural districts to restricted fire season status.

A total fire ban remains on all beaches in Horowhenua and Manawatū districts amid a spell of dry late summer weather in the region.

The dry weather had also seen Manawatū rural areas move to restricted fire season status this week, while the Horowhenua region's status remains open - for now.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) made a decision to move Rangitikei, Manawatū and Palmerston North rural districts to a restricted fire season, which meant a permit had to be obtained for lighting an outdoor fire.

Principal Rural Fire Officer Bradley Shanks says, "ground conditions in the districts have changed enough now for us to need to move to restricted".

"A restricted fire season means you will need to apply for a permit for any outdoor fire and follow the conditions listed on your fire permit," he said.

"You can have a hāngi or umu, and use a gas-fired barbecue but follow the safety tips on www.checkitsalright.nz."

Shanks said Horowhenua rural district and all towns in the region remain in open fire season, although that status was under constant review.

A total fire ban remains for all beaches across all districts.

Horowhenua had recorded 38.4mm of rain in the last 30 days while the Manawatū had an average of 20mm in the last month across the region.

Find out which fire season your area is in and to apply for a fire permit if required at www.checkitsalright.nz.