Dry conditions have prompted an immediate ban on outdoor fires and fireworks in Central Otago, Naseby and upper Waitaki.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) announced a prohibited fire season yesterday, with no open fires allowed and all fire permits suspended.

Otago District Manager Phil Marsh said strong north-westerlies and a lack of significant rain over November had dried out these areas, and the ban was necessary to avoid preventable fires.

"Fireworks are well-known to start fires, especially in areas like Otago where we have mostly grassland valleys, scrubby hillsides and exotic forests," he said.

"Some recent fires in Central Otago and Waitaki became more serious because of high winds - for example, old burn piles reigniting, and fires spreading to surrounding vegetation.

"The wind makes them hard to contain, and it takes longer to make sure they’re really out."

All other areas in Otago remain in an open fire season, meaning people can light outdoor fires without a permit.

Otago District fire zones. IMAGE: FENZ

However, coastal Waitaki, Strath Taieri, and Queenstown Lakes were expected to have restricted fire seasons by the end of this week.

A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an open-air fire needs a permit authorised by Fire and Emergency, which they can apply for at checkitsalright.nz

Phil Marsh said areas around Alexandra and Cromwell had a lot of lifestyle properties which were surrounded by vegetation that could burn quickly.

"Naseby village is exposed to a very high wildfire threat practically every fire season, so we’re planning to get ahead of it this year," he said.

"We also had several fires in Otago this year that were started by fireworks - either through misuse or poor planning.

"The last thing we need is our firefighters tied up with lots of small, unnecessary fires, and then unable to respond if a significant wildfire gets started.

"If you’re thinking about having a fire, always go to checkitsalright.nz first and follow the guidance.

"It will tell you what the fire season is where you are, what conditions you need to comply with when lighting a fire, or if it’s permitted at all."