Summer 101 - Fire Bans
The risk of wildfire in our district is high and there are several areas subject to a total fire ban all year round.
Quick links
Check it's alright before you light
If you live or play in any of these areas, you may not light a fire or use fireworks at any time:
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Queenstown Special Risk Zone
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Pig and Pigeon Islands
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Albert Town Recreation Reserve and Campground
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Mount Iron Special Risk Zone
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Ruby Island
In other areas, a restricted fire season is now in place. This means no fires without a permit. For full details, including info about the use of backyard fires and BBQs, head to checkitsalright.nz.
Reserve closures
Our reserves are wonderful places to visit and enjoy over summer, but there may be days where elevated fire danger means they may be unsafe to access.
This may result in occasional closures to three reserves that pose the highest risk in our district: Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill and Mount Iron. Although not a decision taken lightly, closing access means we can reduce the potential for a fire to happen and ensure people are out of harm’s way if it does.
We have guidelines and protocols which help us make decisions on how to manage the reserves when conditions become extreme.
To read more about the reserve closure plan, see the current status of each reserve and some FAQs head over to our 'managing wildfire risk' webpage