Fire restrictions lifted
18 April 2008
Rural Fire authorities have lifted fire restrictions across Hastings District and Napier City following several days of
rain this week, though they are still advising caution when lighting fires outdoors.
Kevin Deacon, the Hastings District Council’s Operations Services Manager, said the rain was a welcome relief for
farmers and fire officers alike, but warned the region was still at risk of fires.
“The dry summer has left a lot of dead material out there even if has been dampened down at the moment, so we would
still like people to exercise caution when lighting fires outdoors over winter.”
The lifting of restrictions means the Hastings District and Napier City are in an ‘open fire season’. Permits are no
longer required for outdoor fires. Central Hawke’s Bay District Council is also lifting its fire restrictions.
The open fire season takes effect at 8am tomorrow (Saturday 19 April).
ENDS