FAQs - Fire

If you want to light a fire on one of our Horowhenua District beaches, you must check with FENZ to see if you need a permit. You can check and apply for a permit at Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Before you go home:

• When you’re done, make sure your fire's completely out. Use water to put out the fire and any leftover wood or coals.
• Break apart the wet wood to help it cool down and stop it catching fire again.
• Don’t cover the fire with sand as this can keep the embers hot and hidden, which is a danger for people walking barefoot.
• Always clean up and make sure the area is safe for everyone.

BBQs at the beach

You can bring your portable gas BBQ to the beach, however, be sure to fire up your BBQ responsibly and avoid putting people, property or nature at risk. Check it's alright with these BBQ safety tips from FENZ. 

You might need a fire permit depending on the location of your property and the current fire season status. Find out more on checkitsalright.nz

The Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017 came into force on 1 July 2017. As a result, the rural fire functions previously managed by Horowhenua District Council transitioned in responsibility to Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ). From July 2018, FENZ became the single issuing authority for urban and rural permits.

If there's a property in your neighbourhood that you believe is a health or safety hazard because of an unkempt section, you can let FENZ know about your concern by completing their Fire Hazard Assessment Request on the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website or calling 0800 658 628.

FENZ is only able to take action to deal with genuine fire hazards, and not where the property is just unsightly or presents a health hazard.

If you believe the property is a health hazard, please call our Compliance team on (06) 366 0999.