Restricted
fire season
Fire and Emergency New Zealand [Fenz] has announced Wairarapa will move to a restricted fire season from 8am today until further notice. A restricted fire season will mean people who want to light an outdoor fire must have a fire permit approved by Fenz. Announcing the fire season change, Fenz community risk manager Phil Soal said season changes mean the region is experiencing lower temperatures. “The forecast indicates we can expect more cooler southerlies, which will reduce the wildfire danger, but lower risk doesn’t mean no risk,” he said. Because “Wairarapa is still experiencing periods of warm and windy weather, people should remain vigilant when lighting outdoor fires. People must have a permit and ensure any fire is well-controlled and safe.” Visit www.checkitsalright.nz to apply for a fire permit and for further info about fire safety.
Funding
applications
South Wairarapa District Council’s [SWDC] Featherston Community Board fund applications are closing on Tuesday, April 23. Community organisation, marae committees, other groups, and individuals with a common purpose that benefits the Featherston ward are eligible to apply for the funding. More info on how to apply is on the SWDC website: swdc.govt.nz/community/grants.
Power outage
There is a planned power outage for the Holdsworth Lodge situated in the Tararua Forest Park, on Monday, April 22 from 9:30am to 4pm, due to the replacement of cross arms on poles.
Open fire season
Tararua District Council [TDC] has announced that the region is now in an open fire season, with the exception of Tararua East. Eketāhuna, Pahiatua, Woodville and other, smaller towns further north are now all in open season. TDC said this does not excuse complacency, and people should still be cautious.
Dog rego
Tararua District Council is reminding dog owners that dog registration deadlines are “around the corner,” and to help streamline the process, is asking owners to tell the council about the dogs they currently own via 06 374 4080 [North] or 06 376 0110 [South].
