A Restricted Fire Season will be in force in the Whangarei District from midnight tonight (Wednesday 29 January 2014) until further notice.

It applies to all land in the Whangarei District. Matakohe/Limestone and Rabbit Islands already have a permanent fire ban.

The restriction means permits are required for all open air fires.

Permits will only be issued where suitable fire protection measures can be provided. Consideration should be given as to whether the fire can be delayed until the fire danger reduces. Permits will not be issued where the fire can be reasonably delayed or the task can be achieved without the use of fire.

The restriction will remain in force until weather conditions and fire danger risk are low enough for it to be lifted.

All fires in the open air require permits with the exception of the following:

Commercially constructed barbeques, incinerators (complying with NZS 5262, 5435 and 5442), cooking fires such as umu, hangi and spit fires, subject to the following conditions:

a) They are supervised by a responsible adult at all times.

b) A pressurised supply of water is at hand.

c) The fire is extinguished as soon as the task is complete.

d) A clear area of at least 10 metres is maintained around the fire.

e) The fire is no larger than 2 x 2 metres.

f) A warranted fire officer can request that any barbecue, incinerator or other fire be extinguished if considered a danger.

All persons responsible for a fire may be held liable for all costs associated with control of that fire. Holding a permit for a fire does not remove this liability.

To obtain a permit apply on line havingafire.org.nz or phone Forest Protection Services (09) 430 7707

Under the restrictions strict rules restricting outdoor fires will be in force.

ENDS

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