Extreme fire conditions across Hawke’s Bay - take extra care

8 January 2026

Starting tomorrow, the temperature is heating up across the Hawke’s Bay, particularly in the Ahuriri Heretaunga, Central Hawke’s Bay, and Northern Tararua areas.

These areas will be seeing temperatures above 30 degrees, strong winds in some places, low humidity, and low rainfall.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand Hawke’s Bay District Manager, Tony Kelly says this is a dangerous combination when it comes to fire danger.

"These conditions create spike fire risk days. On these days, fires can start easily, grow rapidly, and become extremely difficult for our crews to control.

"Our crews have been briefed about the weather over the coming days and are prepared to respond quickly and effectively.

"However, we are also urging the public to do their part to reduce the risk of fires starting and spreading."

Tony Kelly says people in the Hawke’s Bay should follow these tips:

• Minimise or postpone any spark/heat generating activities such as using power tools and mowing the lawn

• Check any burn piles less than two months old and ensure they are fully extinguished

• Keep your grass short and clean dead leaves and debris from gutters and decks

• Keep your driveway clear of trees and hedges for fire trucks (at least 4m x 4m clearance)

• Make sure your RAPID property number is easy for emergency services to find

• If you see smoke, call 111 immediately. We want to extinguish fires early.

Most of the Hawke’s Bay is already in a prohibited or restricted fire season and we are suspending all fire permits across the District from today.

"You can visit www.checkitsalright.nz to keep updated on the conditions and seek safety advice," Tony Kelly says.