Recent rain brings relief for Central Otago as total fire ban revoked
19 Jan, 2021 06:39 PM
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The wildfire near Waipori Falls in Otago last month. Photo / Peter McIntosh
NZ Herald
Rain has brought some relief to Central Otago with the area being moved from a total ban on all fires to a restricted season today.
The central zone includes Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Naseby, Ranfurly, Kurow, Otematata, Omarama and Middlemarch.
There has been a total fire ban in the area since December 18 last year. The shift to a restricted season begins from 8am.
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Advertisement The restricted fire season means people in the area may be able to light an outdoor fire if they apply for a permit and follow the conditions listed on it.
Source:Â Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Otago District Central Zone will move to a restricted fire season effective from 8am Wednesday 20 January.
The central zone includes Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Naseby, Ranfurly, Kurow, Otematata, Omarama and Middlemarch.
There has been a total fire ban in the Otago District Central Zone since 18 December 2020.
However, recent rainfall has reduced the fire danger levels which means the area can now join the rest of the Otago District in a restricted fire season.
Deputy Principal Rural Fire Officer Bobby Lamont says the restricted fire season means people in the Otago District Central Zone may be able to light an outdoor fire if they apply for a permit and follow the conditions listed on it.