FENZ GRAPHICDry conditions have prompted Fire and Emergency New Zealand to implement a restricted fire season in the coastal Waitaki zone. Fenz Waitaki district commander Craig Gold said outdoor fires would need a permit from today until further notice. Inland Otago, including Queenstown Lakes, Central Otago and northern parts of the Waitaki district, was already in a restricted fire season. Mr Gold said the latest change in fire season reflected the increasing levels of fire risk around Otago. He urged residents to visit www.checkitsalright.nz to find out the fire season status for any location in the country and get advice on how to use fire safely.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 18, 2026 15:32 UTC