Most of Otago set for open fire season
29 March 2023
Most of Otago will move to an open fire season as of 8am tomorrow (30 March) until further notice.
The restricted fire seasons in place for Lakes, Central, Alpine zone, Strath Taieri and Upper Waitaki will be revoked. The prohibition on the use of private fireworks in Lakes, Central and Upper Waitaki will also be revoked.
Naseby will remain in a restricted fire season.
Otago District Manager Phil Marsh says lower temperatures and wetter conditions have reduced the fire risk across Otago, allowing for the easing of restrictions, but some risk still remains.
"Despite recent and forecast wet weather meaning we’re able to lift fire controls, grass and other fine vegetation can still quickly dry out and become flammable," Phil says.
"We still have several areas that remain quite dry, and there will be days during the rest of autumn and even winter where the fire risk will be enough for a fire to get out of control.
"Care is always required by anyone lighting fires to ensure the fire stays under control - it is never a good idea to light outdoor fires on a windy day."
"We encourage all people planning on lighting a fire to check if they need a permit, and for the current weather conditions on www.checkitsalright.nz."
A reminder that open fires are not permitted in the following locations, which are in a year-round prohibited fire season:
Ruby Island (Lake Wanaka)
Stevensons Island (Lake Wanaka)
Mou Waho Island (Lake Wanaka)
Mou Tapu Island (Lake Wanaka)
Mount Iron (Wanaka)
Albert Town Recreational Reserve
(Wanaka)
Pig and Pigeon Islands (Lake Wakatipu)
Queenstown Red Zone (Queenstown)
Coronet Forest (Queenstown)
Shag Point (Waitaki)
Bucklands Crossing (Dunedin)