In generalECB recently requested that HCC place a sign stating “No fires on any beach south of here without a permit.” (or similar) at the entrance to the bays. The sign may not happen, but council did reply (summary):
Council’s default position is not to authorise fires in Reserves or Open Space.
Please note it is already mandatory for anyone wishing to light a fire in open space to approach FENZ for a permit.
… any person who wishes to light a fire in a Reserve or Public Open Space would need to gain Council’s permission and then gain a Fire permit from FENZ.
The correct approach for managing fires in Open Space or Reserve continues to be ring 111 and let FENZ decide what action to take. Before lighting any fire, you must check the current fire season status on the checkitsalright.nz website.
If fires are permitted, authorities stress the following safety precautions:
- Proper Extinguishing: Use ample water to fully put out the fire and mix the ashes and embers with the water.
- Do NOT Bury: Never bury a fire or hot embers with sand. Sand acts as an insulator, keeping the heat in, which poses a serious burn risk to people and animals walking barefoot on the beach.
- Fire Breaks: Create a minimum 5-meter non-combustible fire break around your fire.
- Supervision: The fire must be monitored and controlled for its entire duration until it is completely extinguished.
- Responsibility: The person who lights a fire is responsible for all costs and damages if it gets out of control.
If you see an out-of-control fire or have concerns about an unsafe fire, contact emergency services by dialing 111 immediately.