Total fire ban lifted in Hurunui

The Hurunui District's total fire ban has been lifted two weeks after fire ripped through trees on Lochiel Station near Hanmer Springs.

A total fire ban in the Hurunui District has been lifted.

The Hurunui District Council Rural Fire Authority lifted the ban on Monday at noon.

An open fire season is now in place. That means fires can now be lit in the open without having to gain a permit.

However, if weather conditions change and present a threat, a total fire ban may be implemented again.

Those wanting to carry out controlled burn offs are advised to tell their local chief fire officer before doing so to avoid any false alarms.

It comes after twelve helicopters and 14 ground crews battled fires near Lewis Pass Rd (SH7), near Hanmer Springs on March 1.

The fire started on the Waiau River before jumping to the other side of the road and into trees on Lochiel Station.