Fire and Emergency Southern District will move from a Restricted Fire Season to an Open Fire Season tomorrow (April 19) at 8.00am.

The Open Season will replace the Restricted Fire Season, meaning permits are not required for all burn types. 

Southern District principal rural fire officer Timo Bierlin said they had lifted the restrictions in response to the change in weather conditions.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) says the dry summer has resulted in extremely dry vegetation, which takes longer to regain moisture and reduce fire danger levels.

“People lighting fires still need to think and plan ahead and take responsibility for any fires they light," Mr. Bierlin said.

“There is always risk associated with using fires regardless of the time of year and how wet it may appear. Wind is the biggest factor that catches people out."

An open season is in place for all of Southland, except: Zone C (around the Awarua / Waituna wetlands), where fire permits are required all year round, and Zone B areas around high value conservation and forestry, which is in a restricted fire season all year round.

Mr. Bierlin advised people to make sure smoke does not create a hazard near roads. 

Tips for Successful Burning

• Ensure the material you want to burn is dry. Wet material and sappy vegetation creates lots of smoke and can be a nuisance to neighbours.

• Fire material should be at least 30 metres from any building, hedges or other combustible material.

• Obtain a long range weather forecast to ensure there are not strong winds forecast.

• Keep your fire small and easy to control by feeding material into the fire a little at a time.

• Ensure there is a water supply sufficient to control any spread.  

• Do not leave your fire unattended.

• When you have finished make sure the fire is out. 

• Check bylaws

FENZ says 50% of all fires that it is called to are for fires that people had thought were out but reignited during a windy period.

Further information is available on www.checkitsalright.nz or calling on 0800 658 628.