Fire safety warning for Northland islands

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has issued an urgent reminder to the public about the risks of lighting fires on islands that are public conservation land in Northland.

This reminder comes in the wake of recent incidents where campfires were lit on Motumaire near Paihia and Waewaetorea in the outer Bay of Islands.

The concern is heightened due to large fires that occurred in recent years on nearby Moturua and Manawatāwhi/Three Kings Islands off Cape Reinga​​​​​​.

Department of Conservation’s stance on fire safety

The Department of Conservation (DOC), which manages these islands, strictly prohibits the lighting of fires.

The islands, ranging from the Manawatāwhi/Three Kings Islands to the Hen and Chickens Islands off Bream Bay, are home to significant biodiversity, including threatened plant and animal species.

DOC’s policy aims to protect these delicate ecosystems from the devastating impact of wildfires​​​​​​.

Heightened risk due to El Niño

Wipari Henwood, Fire and Emergency’s Northland District Manager, highlighted the increased fire risk associated with the expected El Niño weather pattern this summer.

El Niño typically brings hotter, drier, and windier conditions, which significantly heighten fire risks.

Henwood emphasised the unique challenges of managing fire risks on islands, noting that they often receive less rainfall and are subject to stronger winds, drying out vegetation more quickly than on the mainland.

The difficulty in controlling fires once they escape and the challenge of a quick firefighting response due to the islands being surrounded by water were also noted​​​​.

Public awareness and fire safety precautions

Henwood and Bronwyn Bauer-Hunt, Department of Conservation Bay of Islands Operations Manager, urged the public to be aware of the risks and refrain from lighting fires.

They noted that recreational activities, including boating, often lead to a decreased focus on fire safety.

They also dispelled the misconception that beach fires are always safe, warning that hot embers can easily ignite nearby vegetation.

Bauer-Hunt reminded that many of these islands are pest-free, and visitors should check their boats for rodents or other unwanted pests.

Dogs are not permitted on islands managed by DOC as they can disturb or threaten wildlife​​​​.

Checking fire danger levels

FENZ reminds everyone to check the fire danger level at www.checkitsalright.nz before considering lighting a fire anywhere this summer.

This website provides up-to-date information on fire danger levels across the country and is a crucial tool for ensuring fire safety​​​​.

IFSJ Comment

The recent reminder from Fire and Emergency New Zealand underscores the importance of responsible behaviour and adherence to fire safety regulations, especially in vulnerable ecosystems like those found on Northland’s islands.

The potential consequences of negligence are not just limited to immediate fire hazards but extend to long-term ecological damage.

With the expected El Niño weather pattern, the risks are even higher, making this reminder timely and crucial.

It serves as a vital call to action for visitors and locals alike to prioritise safety and environmental preservation.

This situation is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between enjoying natural beauty and preserving it for future generations.