Fire and Emergency New Zealand has imposed a temporary ban on fireworks and sky lantern activity across the Port Hills, Banks Peninsula, and Kaitorete Spit from 12pm on Friday to reduce the risk of wildfires during the summer months.
Canterbury District Commander Dave Stackhouse said the ban, enforced under Section 52 of the Fire and Emergency Act, aims to prevent large fires from starting in these high-risk areas, which are popular with holiday visitors.
“Historically, fireworks have frequently been let off in these areas, especially in spots which are popular with holiday visitors,” Stackhouse said.
“We do have a history of large fires in this part of Canterbury, which is why we banned fireworks on the Port Hills and on Banks Peninsula last summer. That almost eradicated the number of fires caused by fireworks over the holiday period, so we’re doing it again this year, and adding Kaitorete Spit to the ban as well.”
Stackhouse referenced the devastating Port Hills fire in February, saying it was an event no one wants to see repeated.
“Unfortunately, we’re still expecting higher temperatures and westerlies over the next couple of months, which will keep drying out vegetation and contribute to the fire risk in Canterbury. Fast-spreading grass fires are our greatest concern on the Port Hills and Banks Peninsula.”
He emphasised that preventing fires starts with responsible behaviour.
“It only takes one spark to start a wildfire, and that spark is preventable. We’re asking all residents and visitors to the region to help us keep Canterbury free of preventable fires this summer.”
The ban comes alongside a restricted fire season in the Canterbury District, meaning anyone wanting to light an open-air fire must first obtain a permit via checkitsalright.nz.
“If you’re considering undertaking any fire-related or spark-making activity, you need to go to checkitsalright.nz to see what restrictions are in place before you get started,” Stackhouse said.
With dry conditions expected to persist, Fire and Emergency is urging the public to take the ban seriously and remain vigilant to prevent avoidable wildfires this summer.
