A prohibited fire season has been declared in The Central North Island
🔥🚫 A prohibited fire season has been declared in The Central North Island by Pumicelands Rural-Fire And Emergency New Zealand
A prohibited fire season has been declared for Central Lakes, Bay Of Plenty Coast and Pumicelands.
Principal Rural Fire Officer Steve Webb says all fire permits have been suspended.
"A prohibited fire season means no fires are permitted as the fire danger is too high," Steve Webb says. "During a prohibited fire season only gas and charcoal barbeques can be used".
"Hangi are still allowed, but we are asking people planning hangi to contact us first as conditions are becoming very dry and we may want to put additional protection in place."
For Hangi advice contact Fire and Emergency on 07 858 7612
Steve Webb says it is vitally important that people understand the risks. In extreme conditions it only takes a spark to start a devastating wildfire. That spark can come from a piece of equipment such as a lawnmower, or a grinder, welding or a plough.
"To protect your home, keep roofs and gutters clear of dead leaves, debris and pine needles. Move anything that could burn (such as mulch, leaves, firewood piles) away from exterior walls, decks or porches."
If the current conditions persist there may be a requirement to prohibit any activities that may cause fires to start.
ℹ️You can find more information on how you can reduce the risk below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
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Welcome texture into your room by using leftover Resene Anaglypta wallpaper to accentuate furniture and décor items. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
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