15 Jan 2020

Otago bans open fires in some areas

11:32 am on 15 January 2020

Changes to fire restrictions in Otago came into effect this morning and open fires are now banned in parts of the region.

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Photo: RNZ / Tracy Neal

Fire and Emergency says hot, dry and windy conditions mean it's too dangerous to light fires in the region's central zone - which includes the Central Otago district, inland Waitaki district and Wānaka.

In addition to fires being prohibited in the central zone, all other parts of Otago are now subject to a restricted fire season, meaning all open fires now require a permit and may need to meet additional conditions.