Rural Fire

The Queenstown Lakes District is prone to hot, dry conditions meaning rural fires could occur at any time during the summer. 

Fire Seasons

This district has a 365 day Restricted Fire Season. 

During the year, hot dry conditions in the district may mean that the Principal Rural Fire Officer puts in place a Prohibited Fire Season.   A Prohibited Fire Season means that no fires may be lit, including those with current permits.

Exceptions to this rule, for example BBQs, may be found in the Urban Fire and Smoke Prevention Bylaw 2007.

>> Urban Fire and Smoke Prevention Bylaw 2007 (pdf 21.7kb)

Fire Weather Indices

The amount of fuel available, the moisture content and rate of spread can be determined by referring to a table supplied by the National Rural Fire Authority.

>> Find out more about the National Rural Fire Authority Weather Indices

Illegal Fire Lighting

The penalties for lighting a fire without a permit are severe. Costs to suppress the fire - including man hours, appliances, and aircraft - and repairs for any damage caused may be sought from the person responsible.

Rural Fire Plan

>>Download the current Rural Fire Plan here