Fire and Emergency New Zealand changed restrictions on outdoor fires and fireworks in parts of Otago from 8am on Thursday until further notice.
The Lakes and Glendhu Bluffs zones move from a prohibited to a restricted fire season, which means people can light open air fires if they have a permit authorised by Fire and Emergency. People can apply for a permit at checkitsalright.nz.
The fireworks ban in the Lakes zone has also been revoked.
"Lower temperatures and increased dew over the last fortnight have reduced the fire risk in these areas," Fire and Emergency NZ Otago acting district manager Craig Geddes said.
"This means there is less dry vegetation readily available to burn."
"However, fires can start and spread year-round in our district, so restrictions on fires are still necessary," Mr Geddes said.
Special risk zones would remain in a prohibited fire season, he said.
These areas were Queenstown, Lake Wānaka islands, Lake Wakatipu islands, Mt Iron and the Albert Town reserve, he said. — APL
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