Manawatū-Whanganui coastal zone moves to open fire season after rain

Fire and Emergency NZ district manager Nigel Dravitzki says the fire danger in the coastal zone has eased. Photo / Erin Smith

People no longer need a permit for an open-air fire along the Manawatū-Whanganui coastline.

The coastal zone has returned to open fire season following rainfall and cooler temperatures.

The season began at 8am today and will remain in place until further notice.

People do not need to apply for a Fire and Emergency New Zealand permit to light an outdoor fire during the open season.

Fire and Emergency district manager Nigel Dravitzki said recent weather drove the change in season.

“The area has had sufficient rainfall over the weekend, with more rain expected over the coming week,” he said.

“This, along with a change to cooler temperatures, means the fire danger in the coastal zone has eased.”

A restricted fire season, which required permits for open-air fires, had been in place since March 25 because of dry weather and more fires getting out of control.

Coastal zones have forestry plantations, scrub, pasture grassland, tussock and marram grasses which can fuel serious fires.

Dravitzki said people should check weather conditions before lighting an open-air fire.

“The conditions can change quickly.”

Check if it is safe at www.checkitsalright.nz.