Fire risk extreme, ban extended throughout district

Fire risk has reached extreme levels in Matamata and surrounding areas, as the dry weather continues into April.

Fire authorities have extended the restricted fire ban across the Thames Valley Rural Fire District that includes the Matamata-Piako, Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel districts.

Principal rural fire officer Del Read said small amounts of rain in some areas had done little to dampen the risk.

‘‘We are just asking people to exercise some common sense and be vigilant,’’ he said.

‘‘Significant amounts of consistent rainfall are required over an extended period to reduce the extreme fire risk.’’

Restricted fire bans would remain in place until further notice, he said.

Open air cooking fires, barbecues, hangi fires, braziers, open topped incinerators, retail fireworks and flying lanterns on private and public land are included in the ban.

Tradespeople are advised to use caution when undertaking spark hazardous work such as welding or grinding.

Fire officers also ask property owners to take care when mowing or rotary slashing in grass areas where there may be rocks or other material likely to cause sparks.

Councils may still consider applications for fire permits for specific community or cultural events.

Water levels also remain critical in Matamata, with no rain predicted in the long-range forecast.

Matamata-Piako District Council is urging residents to continue to save water where possible.

Second generation: German exchange student Julius Bals is the second person in his family to stay in Matamata – his mum Tina Bruger was here on an exchange in 1981.