Christchurch switches to restricted fire season

A total fire ban across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula will be lifted at midnight tonight.

The ban will be replaced with a restricted fire season in metropolitan areas, while Banks Peninsula will move to an open season.

Areas of the Port Hills remain very dry.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Principal Rural Fire Officer Bruce Janes says the cooler temperatures and recent light rain have eased the tinder-dry conditions across the region.

“Fewer high-wind periods and more damp starts to the day have all contributed to the move to a restricted season as we change into autumn,” Mr Janes says.

“By maintaining some restrictions we can still help protect an at-risk area from the Port Hills over Summit Road and towards Bottle Lake Forest.

“However – under the restricted season – you still need to get a FENZ permit before you light a fire in the open and ensure that you maintain control.”

Mr Janes says that the restricted fire season will be lifted in most areas of the Selwyn, Waimakariri and Hurunui districts from midnight Friday.

“People in those areas can light a fire in the open without a permit but we are advising everyone to regularly check our website for updates,” he says.

For more information, go to the Checkitsalright website.