Fire restrictions across Central Otago have changed until further notice, Fire and Emergency New Zealand have announced.

Central Otago, Naseby and Upper Waitaki areas have moved from a prohibited fire season to a restricted fire season, which means open air fires are now allowed as long as they have a permit granted by Fire and Emergency.

People can apply for a permit at checkitsalright.nz

The Strath Taieri area is now in an open season, which means no permits are needed for outdoor fires.

However, most fires on conservation land within Strath Taieri will still require a permit.

The ban on lighting fireworks has been revoked in Central Otago and Upper Waitaki, however they are still prohibited in Naseby and Lake Ōhau special risk zones.

Before lighting a fire, people must check the fire restrictions for their location and apply for a fire permit if that’s required by visiting checkitsalright.nz