Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist

  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Call emergency services as soon as you are out and safe. Ask for FIRE.

Clearly state your address and let the operator know it anyone is still inside or has not made it to the safe meeting place.

Emergency call 111 Emergency text 111
Fire & Emergency New Zealand

Restricted fire season for Gisborne and surrounding areas

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Restricted fire season for Gisborne and surrounding areas

16 Hakihea 2025

The Kōpūtūtea zone of Fire and Emergency New Zealand's Tairāwhiti District will enter a restricted fire season from 8am on Tuesday 16 December, until further notice.

This zone covers Gisborne City and the Poverty Bay Basin, including Manutūkē, Pātūtahi and Ngātapa. You can check if your location is included in the attached map.

A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a fire permit authorised by Fire and Emergency, which can be applied for at www.checkitsalright.nz.

Tairāwhiti District Manager Peter Clark says the area is experiencing hotter temperatures for this time of year.

"Our recent period of hot weather, combined with a mostly dry November, has resulted in significantly drier conditions across Gisborne City and the surrounding areas, elevating the overall fire risk.

"Fires can start easily and spread much quicker in dry vegetation. Putting the area into a restricted fire season now will help us protect our District’s people, properties, and whenua.

"Hāngī, umu, and other cultural cooking fires are still permitted during a restricted fire season, as long as they’re no bigger than 2m by 2m and are conducted safely, with appropriate supervision. Remember to keep a hose or bucket of water nearby!"

Peter Clark also urges everyone to visit www.checkitsalright.nz to check their local fire season, fire danger, and access fire safety advice. 

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