“The fire risk across most regions of NZ is now extreme and, in response, and Fire and Emergency is asking the agricultural sector to be vigilant,” FENZ principal fire risk management adviser Rob Goldring said.
“The extreme fire risk is the result of long periods without significant rain and abundant spring vegetation growth that has now dried off.
“These very dry conditions increase the chance of a single spark creating a large fire.
“We’re asking everyone to stop and think before they undertake certain activities and to remain vigilant.”
Farmers are asked not to mow long, dry grass if there’s a chance of hitting a rock.
“If a mower’s metal blades hit even a tiny rock it can cause a spark and ignite a fire.”
Goldring also urged farmers to take extreme care when performing hot work outdoors, such as grinding, welding or metal cutting.
Meanwhile, the Pigeon Valley fires in Tasman District continue to burn.
“The risk is still extreme, there is still a fire burning,” Civil Defence controller Roger Ball said.
“You can’t see a lot, it’s burning underground and there could be a flare up at any time.”
The Wakefield township notice to evacuate was lifted on Friday but residents must still be prepared for a change at any time.
Pigeon Valley’s fire risk remains extreme with the fire ground encompassing 2343 hectares and 3272 people while 83 properties are still evacuated.
Farmers in the region have been granted longer access to their properties where animal welfare remains paramount as officials keep a watchful eye on access to the valleys.
Federated Farmers feed co-ordinator Nick Brooks said farmers were heartened by the arrival from Canterbury of the Nelson Hay Convoy that delivered 267 tonnes of feed.
Feed was given to 50 farmers.
“We believe there is still a need for more good, palatable feed for young stock still in the fire zone and, of course, the drought is now also increasing demand for feed.”
Farmer and Tasman deputy mayor Tim King said the hay convoy has been a godsend for many farmers.
“To get this feed has given farmers time to make the right decisions around what we do next.”
King said the bigger issue is the compounding dry.
“There’s a big shift in focus now to drought as the impact, not just on horticulture now but the wider agricultural sector is biting very hard.”
“With water schemes on 65% cuts to go to the next stage will be an extremely critical level.
“We have never been this dry this early since the early 70s – it’s a real challenge,” King said.
Nelson Hay Convoy co-organiser Paule Crawford said the hay convoy demonstrated real community spirit.
“It’s a blimming amazing community we live in,” Crawford said.
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Go to checkitsalright.nz/ for fire status and rules
