Fire season downgraded to restricted

9 March 2015

The total fire ban in the Taupo District has been lifted after a period of rain and cooler temperatures.

The ban had been in place since January after hot weather and dry conditions meant there was a high risk of fires getting out of hand. The downgrade to a restricted season means those who want to light a fire in a rural area can do so by obtaining a fire permit from Taupo District Council.

Principal rural fire officer Phil Parker said although there had been enough rain to revert back to a restricted season, people still needed to think carefully before lighting a fire.

The risk has decreased but we are still in a restricted season and we encourage people to act responsibly, he said.

Mr Parker said anyone intending to light a fire should ensure the material was dry and that smoke did not cause a hazard.

The Taupo District has been in a restricted or prohibited fire season since October and is likely to return to an open season around late April or early May, depending on conditions.

END

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupo District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz