Learn about Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s fire control powers and how we use them to reduce the risk of unwanted fire, particularly around outdoor fires, for the management of public safety.
The fire plans are specific to each area, and outline locally-appropriate triggers for declaring the beginning and end of fire seasons, prohibiting and restricting fire use, and the issuing of fire permits.
No matter what the fire season is, you still need to comply with our safety guidelines and any council bylaws and regional council requirements relating to smoke nuisance and discharges to the air, even if you are issued with a fire permit from Fire and Emergency.
Protect your home from outdoor fires
Tips for keeping the outside of your home fire safe, including advice on BBQs and Gas Cylinders, overgrown sections, and caravans.
The Seasonal Fire Danger Outlook reports, provided by NIWA.
Can I light a fire?
Fire seasons are used to inform people about the requirements for or restrictions on lighting fires in the open air, and to manage the use of fire to protect communities from the consequences of unwanted fire.
Recreational and cultural
In this section, you'll find tips for staying safe while exploring the great outdoors, including guides for camping, hunting, fireworks, and boat safety. You'll also find content on marae fire safety and staying fire safe when lighting a BBQ, hangi, umu, braai, or lovo.
Councils and community responsibilities
Farms, rural properties and rural businesses
This includes Forestry and Farming businesses.
If there's a fire hazard in your neighbourhood, Fire and Emergency New Zealand may be able to intervene to ensure the things which are causing the hazard are removed or minimised.