Wanaka, Hawea under total fire ban
18 December 2020, 12:50 AM
The scene of a fire near Diamond Lake in October last year that burnt through up to 100 hectares of vegetation before it was contained. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has announced there is now a total fire ban in effect in Central Otago and any permits previously issued for fires at this time are no longer valid.
The prohibited zone includes Wanaka, Lake Hāwea, Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Naseby, Ranfurly, Kurow, Otematata, Omarama and Middlemarch.
Principal rural fire officer Mark Mawhinney said there have been a couple of grass fires recently that quickly spread and could have easily got out of control.
"This is a clear sign that any fires or spark generating activities are just too dangerous in the present conditions," Mark said.
"Low moisture levels paired with expected high temperatures and high winds means everyone from locals to holidaymakers needs to be careful about what they are doing around Central Otago this summer.”
Scientists say this year has brought a La Niña summer, which for central and western parts of the lower South Island, means drier conditions and a higher risk of drought.
La Niña, which can happen every three to five years, arises due to changing temperatures in the Pacific Ocean.
The last La Niña in 2017-18 came with a freak marine heatwave that set the stage for New Zealand's hottest summer on record.
See also: ‘ORC issues warning for La Niña summer’
"We are urging everyone to keep their fireworks at home, cancel any bonfire plans and think about how they plan on cooking when outside,” Mark said.
The places going into a total fire ban have been in a restricted fire season since the beginning of October. Permits acquired during the restricted season will no longer be valid.
With an expected increase in the numbers of holidaymakers in the area, FENZ also recommends visitors create an escape plan for themselves.
"Any new visitors should understand the area they are staying in and know where the potential exit routes are."
Mark also has a simple message for anyone wanting to do some DIY or spark generating activities: "If it is hot and windy, keep it in the shed."
The rest of Otago remains in a restricted season.
PHOTO: Wanaka App
