Anyone wishing to light an open air fire in Southland will now require a permit.

This is a result of the restricted fire season being announced at 7am this morning (12 Jan) by Fire and Emergency NZ District Manager Julian Tohiariki.

Tohiariki said the change in fire season is due to the higher than normal temperatures and lower than normal rainfall.

"We’ve put these restrictions in place to minimise the risk of a devastating wildfire. In these conditions, a wildfire can spread very quickly and is harder to control," he said.

"To apply for a permit go to www.checkitsalright.nz and follow the simple steps," Tohiariki said.

"If you have a permit, you will also need to follow the conditions listed on it."

Tohiariki asked everyone in Southland, holiday makers and residents, to take care this summer and do their part to keep Southland fire safe.

"Check the conditions at www.checkitsalright.nz before lighting a fire and see if it is safe to do your activity."

"If it’s too hot and windy - don’t light, even with a permit, as it only takes one small spark to start a devasting wildfire."

"Anyone planning to do activities that may cause a spark - like mowing, or other hot works - should do these in the cooler parts of the day when its less risky."

A sprinkler ban is already in force within the Southland District.

A total fire ban now also applies to Otago's Lakes and Central zones, which means no outdoor fires or fireworks are permitted. The Otago prohibited fire season was announced at 8am this morning and is until further notice.