A total fire ban now applies to all of Southland, until further notice.

This follows Fire and Emergency New Zealand's (FENZ) prohibited fire season declaration this morning (8am, 1 Feb) for Southland.

FENZ had previously (25 Jan) issued a total ban on outdoor fires across just coastal Southland, including Stewart Island and all of the Department of Conservation estate.

FENZ Southland District Manager Julian Tohiariki says due to La Nina conditions, Southland is experiencing higher than normal temperatures with lower than normal rain fall.

"We do have rain coming but it’s not enough and not in the right places. Any rain is unlikely to make any significant difference to the current conditions," he said.

"I encourage people to be vigilant and to understand the fire dangers, especially while they’re out and about over the long weekend.

He says if there is an urgent need for businesses to burn, they should call Fire and Emergency to discuss options. Contact details here.

"It’s important to know what you can and can’t do in a prohibited season, so please head to www.checkitsalright.nz for tips and fire safety advice," Tohiariki said.