Permit needed for outdoor fires

Lighting outdoor fires without a permit has been banned throughout the region until further notice, as dry weather continues.

Fire & Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) moved the whole of Auckland into a restricted fire season on January 16, meaning an authorised fire permit will be needed to start outdoor fires on the mainland.

Hauraki Gulf islands, including Kawau, remain in a prohibited fire season, meaning all outdoor fires are already banned.

FENZ regional manager for Te Hiku (Northland, Whangarei and Auckland) Ron Devlin said there was a high fire risk throughout Auckland at present.

“While there is some rain forecast, this isn’t going to be enough to counter the effects of the recent warm, dry weather,” he said.

“Right now, we consider flammable vegetation such as mānuka, kānuka and grass, and forestry areas, as being particularly high risk, as these burn easily, spread fast and can be really difficult to contai

Anyone wishing to light an outdoor fire should visit www.checkitsalright.nz to find out what restrictions apply, or contact their local fire brigade