Restricted fire season ends

Colder weather and the weekend’s rain have brought an end to the restricted fire season in Papakura.

Papakura District Council’s Principal Fire Officer Andy Baker says the fire restriction is lifted from May 5. Dry weather since December has made the restricted fire season longer than usual.

He is reminding rural landowners that the lifting of the restriction means they are still responsible for safe management of any fires lit on their properties, and for making sure fires do not cause smoke or other nuisances to their neighbours.

Auckland Regional Council rules in place prohibit open fires within urban areas.

“Residents of the urban part of the district are also reminded that a year-round fire ban remains in force in all urban parts of the district. The only exception to this is fires lit for traditional or cultural cooking purposes.”

People can check if they fall under those rules by contacting the Regional Council or Mr Baker on 027 2865754.