![Dry conditions in Central Otago have prompted a total fire ban in the area. Photo: Getty Images](https://www.odt.co.nz/sites/default/files/styles/odt_landscape_extra_large_4_3/public/story/2020/01/gettyimages-1175190727.jpg?itok=EGSyfZsw)
Dry conditions in Central Otago have prompted a total fire ban in the area. Photo: Getty Images
Fire and Emergency volunteers are on alert in the region and say blazes could easily start by lawn mowing, welding, or even hot car exhausts.
Deputy principal rural fire officer Bobby Lamont said high temperatures combined with long grass verges fuelled the risk of fire.
He said all that was needed now was an ignition source.
"Roadside lawn mowing, welding, grinding, a hot exhaust... cigarette butts have been known to cause fires," he said.
Lamont said people should follow the no-fire rule and not burn any garden waste.
He said gas BBQs were still fine to use.