Dry weather on the way

Residents have been warned that dry weather conditions in the next few weeks are likely to increase the fire risk.

Kaipara District Council emergency response co-ordinator Jim Goodland says it’s going to be a cold, dry and windy time. This increases the risk of fire danger considerably.

Although Mr Goodland says they are constantly monitoring the situation they are not establishing any fire restrictions yet.

“However, people still need to follow the rules.”

- Don’t light fires in strong winds

- Don’t leave fires unattended – until you can be sure the fire won’t spread

- It is preferable that fires don’t burn over-night

- It is important to have a water supply nearby, such as a tractor with a spray tank.

Lastly contact the Kaipara District Council if you are going to be lighting a fire.

Mr Goodland says if we have been told a farmer is having a burn-off and then we get an emergency call at three in the morning regarding a fire that we know has been purposefully lit we don’t have to panic.

Short range weather forecast: Extended periods of dry weather are expected as high pressure systems move east from the Tasman Sea on to northern parts of New Zealand.

Between these highs the region is expected to experience cold fronts and cool periods with southwest or southerly winds.

Occasionally, a low pressure system may move in from the north or north west bringing a day or two of rain.

- © Fairfax NZ News