Fire ban stays as Christchurch temperatures climb

A total fire ban remains in place as hot, gusty north-west winds are forecast for greater Christchurch and Banks Peninsula for the next few days.

Temperatures are expected to climb into the 30s today but the humidity will remain relatively low, worsening the tinder-dry ground conditions.

The fire ban prohibits any outdoor fires in both rural and urban areas.

Temperatures will soar across the region.

However, a southerly change is forecast for Friday afternoon, with lower temperatures and much needed rain.

Temperatures will drop markedly from Sunday, with south-west winds and higher rainfall.

Fire-fighting resources remain heavily committed to the Nelson region, placing pressure on other areas.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has dealt with several local incidents in recent days, including crop stubble burns.

A logging truck loader caught alight beside Omihi Forest, only metres from hundreds of hectares of production forest, while a mountain of hay caught fire near Oxford.

FENZ quickly brought in a 20-tonne digger to bury the hay.

A restricted fire season remains in place in the Selwyn, Waimakariri and Hurunui districts.

Anyone in those areas wanting to light a fire light outside must first obtain a permit from FENZ via the Checkitsalright website.

FENZ Principal Rural Fire Officer Bruce Janes says as the region gets drier, “we are refusing most permits” in order to maintain safety.

Rainfall levels for the past six weeks remain well below normal, highlighting ongoing concerns.

Anyone who sees smoke or fire should dial 111 immediately.