Grass fires fought in tinder-dry Central Otago

Firefighters battled two grass fires yesterday in a tinder-dry Central Otago that has not had rain for more than six months.

Cromwell Fire Service senior officer John Searle said firefighters from Cromwell and Luggate and members of the DOC Otago rural fire service spent three hours battling a 300m2 fire off State Highway 6.

The fire started in rank grass off State Highway 6 near Mt Pisa about 12.30pm and was caused by a sparking stone from a resident's mower, Mr Searle said.

"You have to be real careful out in the rural areas. Conditions are very dry – perfect for grass fires."

In Alexandra, firefighters were called to a grass fire at 2pm.

Fire Service volunteer John Mawhinneysaid two crews from Alexandra spent half an hour at the 80m2 fire, where there was a lot of cut grass, which could heat like compost and burst into flames, he said. The cause was still unknown, he said.

Central Otago principal rural fire officer Owen Burgess said people must be careful when mowing rank grass. The best time to mow was in the morning, when there was dew and winds were light, he said.

john.edens@stl.co.nz

- © Fairfax NZ News

Newest First

Oldest First