A restricted fire season has been declared for the Thames-Coromandel district by Fire and Emergency New Zealand [FENZ] until February 1.
Waikato district manager Daryl Trim said the fire season had been changed to reduce the fire risk for the area with the expected influx of holidaymakers.
“The change in season will cover the Thames-Coromandel Council boundaries, and islands off the mainland. No open-air fires can be lit in these areas without a fire permit,” he said.
“Anyone with a permit will need to comply with specific conditions on their permit so they can light their fire safely.”
FENZ said private firework use in the Thames-Coromandel area will also be banned until February 1.
“While we understand visitors and locals want to celebrate the holidays and the New Year with a bang, fireworks can start devastating fires,” Daryl Trim said.
“We ask anyone heading to Thames-Coromandel for the holidays and permanent residents to keep their fireworks stored at home until the ban is lifted.
“Everyone here at Fire and Emergency wants locals and holidaymakers to have a fun and safe time during the holidays.”
To apply for a permit, and to find out more information about the activities you can and can’t do in a restricted fire season, go to www.checkitsalright.nz.
