Changes to fire restrictions in Otago came into effect this morning and open fires are now banned in parts of the region.
Photo: RNZ / Tracy Neal
Fire and Emergency says hot, dry and windy conditions mean it's too dangerous to light fires in the region's central zone - which includes the Central Otago district, inland Waitaki district and Wānaka.
In addition to fires being prohibited in the central zone, all other parts of Otago are now subject to a restricted fire season, meaning all open fires now require a permit and may need to meet additional conditions.