Fire and Emergency New Zealand has imposed a temporary ban on all fireworks in the Mackenzie Basin and Ashburton Lakes area, including Lake Clearwater and Lake Camp, from Sunday until the end of March.
Mid-South Canterbury District Manager Rob Hands said the ban, issued under Section 52 of the Fire and Emergency Act, aimed to reduce the risk of wildfires during the hot, dry summer months.
“It will prevent people from letting off fireworks in these areas as part of our ongoing efforts to reduce the risk of wildfire over summer,” Hands said.
“We know people stockpile fireworks from Guy Fawkes and like to let them off over summer, but right now the weather conditions are just too hot, dry and windy. While some people might be tempted to celebrate holiday events with fireworks, the risk of causing a wildfire in the district is too great.
“It only takes one spark to start a wildfire. So please, leave your fireworks at home if you’re visiting Mid-South Canterbury this summer.”
Hands said last year’s major wildfire at Pukaki Downs and the devastating Lake Ōhau fire in spring 2020 were still fresh in people’s minds.
“We are taking this step to limit the chances of large fires happening here again.”
The announcement comes after all of Mid-South Canterbury moved into a restricted fire season last week, requiring people to obtain a fire permit before lighting any open-air fires. Permits can be applied for at checkitsalright.nz.
“Wherever you are in the country, if you’re thinking about lighting a fire, go to checkitsalright.nz to see whether any restrictions are in place before lighting up,” Hands said.
The fireworks ban will remain in effect until 31 March 2025.
This follows a similar move in Central Otago, Naseby, and upper Waitaki, where outdoor fires and fireworks have been prohibited due to strong winds and dry conditions. Fire and Emergency urged people across the region to prioritise fire safety and remain vigilant throughout summer.