From Friday 9 January 2026, Fire and Emergency New Zealand has moved Wairarapa to a restricted fire season until further notice.

A restricted fire season means a permit is required to light an open-air fire.

The restricted fire season will cover Inland Northern, Inland Central, South Wairarapa and the Western Ranges.

FENZ says the recent warm and dry weather means the fire risk across the region has increased. In these conditions fire will travel fast and will be difficult for fire crews to extinguish.

Having a restricted fire season gives FENZ greater control of who can burn and when, and they can provide direct fire safety advice to those completing burns.

To apply for a permit, go to www.checkitsalright.nz.

When it comes to animal safety, the Ministry for Primary Industries has a handy planning guide for livestock, lifestyle block, horse and pet owners when dealing with an emergency fire event – before, during and after. Find the guide here: Animals affected by fire Advice for livestock, lifestyle block, horse and pet owners

With the hot weather continuing to impact Wairarapa over the next few days, this is a reminder to heed FENZ’s advice around staying fire safe:

• Minimise anything that could create a spark.
• Keep your grass short, clean dead leaves and debris from gutters and decks.
• Keep your driveway clear of trees and hedges for fire trucks (at least 4m x 4m clearance).
• Make sure your RAPID property number is easy for emergency services to find.
• If you see smoke, call 111, we want to extinguish fires early.

Find fire safety tips and more information about the activities you can and can’t do in a restricted fire season at www.checkitsalright.nz.