Temporary fireworks bans covering the Mackenzie Basin and the area around Lake Clearwater will come into effect tomorrow, Monday 15 December, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfire over the summer.

Wildfire is an ever-present hazard in both areas because of their dry and windy climate, the natural vegetation and topography.

As 98 percent of New Zealand’s wildfires are started by people, Fire and Emergency NZ is renewing the annual fireworks bans in both of the popular South Canterbury visitor destinations.

District Commander Rob Hands says that setting off fireworks is a highly risky activity over summer, when vegetation is tinder dry and outdoor fires are often challenging for firefighters to bring under control.

While some parts of the countryside are still deceptively green, locals know how quickly conditions can change given a few warm and windy days.

"We are putting this measure in place now when visitor numbers are starting to increase so that we have a consistent approach all summer," Rob Hands says. "It only takes one spark to start a wildfire, so we want visitors to understand the risks and leave their fireworks at home this summer."

Signage is being installed over the next few days and there will be posters in campgrounds and shops to remind people not to let off any fireworks.

At present the MacKenzie Basin is in an open fire season, meaning that a permit is not currently needed to light an open fire in the area. However, anyone planning to light a fire in the open still needs to do it safely and with consideration for others. Wherever you are in the country, go to www.checkitsalright.nz or call 0800 658 628 to see whether any restrictions are in place before lighting up.

The temporary fireworks ban for the Mackenzie Basin will be in place until 31 March 2026 while the Lake Clearwater Ban will end on 10 February 2026.

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