Outdoor burning is banned from 1 May until 31 August for all properties in the Napier and Hastings airsheds.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Group Manager Policy & Regulation Katrina Brunton says the seasonal ban is in place to protect Hawke’s Bay’s air quality, especially during colder weather when smoke can become trapped close to the ground.

“We all share the air around us, and to put it simply, we breathe what you burn. Smoke from backyard fires may not seem like a big deal, but it builds up across our region on cold, still days and lingers in our neighbourhoods. These rules help protect our whānau, especially tamariki, from the harmful effects of smoke during the colder months.”

While outdoor burning is banned in these urban areas, residents can still enjoy barbecues or hāngī fires.

Outdoor fires are allowed outside of the airshed, provided certain rules are followed. These include only burning untreated wood, paper, cardboard, or vegetation, and ensuring that the fire isn’t impacting neighbouring properties.

“Please consider your neighbours before you light fires. We encourage everyone to check the forecast and burn responsibly to prevent nuisance smoke,” adds Ms Brunton.

People should check with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) before lighting any fires and contact their city or district councils for bylaw rules related to open air fires.

Anyone wanting to report nuisance, or illegal burning can contact the Regional Council’s 24/7 Pollution Hotline on 0800 108 838.

To check whether your property is within an airshed, or for full details on outdoor burning rules, visit hbrc.govt.nz, search #burning.

© Scoop Media