Fire and Emergency is urging people to remain vigilant when they’re burning off paddocks and vegetation with high winds forecast across the country this weekend. On Thursday alone, a helicopter was needed to fight an out of control burn near Cheviot, .
The Central Otago and Upper Waitaki zones of the Otago District will enter a restricted fire season, as of 8am on 14 September until further notice. A restricted fire season means a permit is required to light a fire in open air. You can apply for one at .