Fire restrictions lifted

The fire status for both Marlborough north and south zones has changed.

The Marlborough south zone has moved from a total ban to restricted fire season while Marlborough north zone is now open fire season.

All Department of Conservation land in both zones remains restricted.

Recent rain events and cooler temperatures have dropped the fire danger indices to a level FENZ (Fire and Emergency New Zealand) is now comfortable with to issue fire permits, Group Manager Chris Hayles said.

“We are mindful that while there has been new grass growth across the district, the long dry grass will still carry fire that can move extremely fast in windy conditions,” he said.

“We are asking those applying for fire permits to comply with the conditions listed.”

Mr Hayles said in areas where no fire permit is required, it was still the responsibility of the person lighting the fire to ensure this is done in a safe manner.

“Fires need to be kept to a manageable size and smoke drift should not be a hazard for motorists,” he said.

For further information go to https://www.checkitsalright.nz/