Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has revoked the prohibited fire season in a range of nearby zones, including Glendhu Bluffs, from 8am this morning (Saturday April 13).

The change moves Glendhu Bluffs, Central, Upper Waitaki, Strath Taieri and Naseby to a restricted fire season, which means people can only light outdoor fires if they have a fire permit approved by FENZ. 

A fireworks ban in the zone is also being lifted this morning, but this does not apply to the ‘prohibited’ special risk zones as well as Glendhu Bluffs. 

Wānaka is part of Otago’s Lakes zone., which is currently also in a restricted fire season.

"Heavy rain this week broke the back of dry conditions and reduced the fire danger right across the district," FENZ Otago district manager Phil Marsh said.

Apart from significant recent rainfall, vegetation is becoming damper with cooler temperatures, longer nights and more dew in the mornings.

Caution around lighting outdoor fires is nonetheless still advised, Phil said. 

There has been a lot of grass growth over summer which can be further dried out by frosts. 

People need to take care whenever they light fires.

The fire season change will enable farmers to use fire for land management purposes ahead of winter, Phil said.

"It is important people are aware they must still have the necessary permissions and ensure any fires are kept well controlled and safe,” he said. 

“Always visit the Check It’s Alright website before lighting and avoid lighting fires during or ahead of strong winds."

“Because fire and activity restrictions or prohibitions change depending on fire risk conditions, and special risk sub-zones have differing fire controls, people should search for their exact location at the Check It’s Alright website,” he said.