Southland's fire restrictions have been eased, following the recent rain throughout the province, with a move back into a restricted fire season this morning (8 Feb).

However the private use of charcoal barbecues, charcoal grills, wood-fired pizza ovens and chiminea is still banned at Sandy Point.

But the same ban that had been in place for Edendale was discontinued from 8am today.

A restricted season means anyone wanting to light an open-air fire in Southland can do so if they have a permit.

"To apply for a permit, go to www.checkitsalright.nz and follow the simple steps," says District Manager, Julian Tohiariki.

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

Tohiariki said while recent rain had eased the conditions, there was still the risk of wildfires.

"Summer is not over yet, there is no guarantee the dry conditions that require a prohibited fire season won’t return.

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