Wildfires in Regional Parks

Wildfire season – What you need to know

We’re in wildfire season which means the Greater Wellington Regional Parks team is monitoring fire danger in our region.

From 2023, Greater Wellington is implementing fire risk levels in Regional Parks, a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of our park users.

And as we grapple with the impacts of climate change, the threat of wildfires has increased, meaning we’re now taking proactive measures to mitigate risks. 

The decision to restore former grazing land in certain parks to native forest has also temporarily increased the risk of fire as we wait for planted natives to establish.

Like Fire and Emergency New Zealand, we use a colour coded fire risk system ranging from green (low risk) to red (extreme risk). 

Each level may trigger restrictions within our parks, such as access or activities allowed. See below for current restrictions in regional parks. We will also update each park’s notice section with information as the fire season progresses. 

FIRE WARNING at the following parks:

HIGH FIRE RISK WARNING - Baring Head/Ōrua-pouanui and Parangarahu Lakes (East Harbour Regional Park)

Visit the park page for up-to-date restrictions.

Tips for staying safe

• Always keep a cell phone on you and call 111 in the event of a fire. 
• Check what activities are permitted or not permitted within a park.  
• During periods of very hot and dry conditions visit parks during the morning before the hottest part of the day. 
• Know where you are in the park at all times and know the exit routes.  
• You can’t outrun a grass fire. If it’s windy, consider visiting on a calmer day.  
• If there is a fire, move away and leave the park by the safest exit. 
• Refrain from smoking or vaping in our regional parks, however if you need to, please ensure you fully extinguish butts and take them with you. 

Wildfire season – Frequently asked questions 

What is the fire risk level system in regional parks?

Greater Wellington uses a colour-coded fire risk system ranging from Green (low risk) to Red (extreme risk). Each level has specific restrictions on park access and activities to reduce wildfire risks. Check park updates online or at park entrances to know the current risk level. 

Why are there fire restrictions this summer?  

As climate change intensifies, our parks face increased wildfire threats, especially in areas where former grazing lands are being restored with native plants that haven't yet fully established. 

How will I know if there’s a fire restriction in place?  

Fire restriction updates are posted on our website under each park’s page, and signs are displayed at park entrances. It’s essential to check these updates before visiting, especially in summer. We’ll also update our social media pages when fire risk increases. 

How do you determine fire risk and decide to increase codes?  

We use a combination of NIWA’s Fire Weather Indices, weather forecasting and ground condition assessments determine the fire risk in our parks. The assessments consider factors like temperature, humidity, grass curing levels (dryness), and recent and projected rainfall to evaluate how easily a fire could ignite and spread.  When these indicators reach trigger points, we look at the projected future weather conditions, raise the fire risk code and update restrictions accordingly. 

Why can contractors, utility companies, or park staff access parks when they’re closed to the public?  

Certain authorised groups, like contractors and staff, follow stringent safety protocols, including carrying firefighting equipment and following a controlled access plan. This means that Greater Wellington knows their locations within the park, which ensures safer evacuations if needed.  

Our fire activity controls are shared with both utility companies and landowners accessing properties across park land for them to adhere to.   

By contrast, when members of the public are in the park, we have no way of knowing where they all are and emergency communication is impossible, making evacuation much more difficult in the event of a fire. This is why recreation activities and access is restricted during high fire risk periods—ensuring the safety of everyone.   

Are fires allowed in regional parks?  

Open fires, including backcountry campfires and beach bonfires, are not allowed during wildfire season. Be cautious with camping stoves and gas barbecues and use them only where permitted. Some of our parks allow campfires in campgrounds. Check the relevant park page for restrictions. 

Are there restrictions for vehicles, motorbikes and e-bikes?  

Yes. First check the park you are visiting does not have restrictions in place for vehicle access. If vehicles are allowed, avoid parking on dry grass or scrub. Motorbikes must have an exhaust spark arrestor and a fire extinguisher, and 4x4s are required to carry firefighting gear. Keep electric bikes maintained to manufacturer requirements and don’t operate when damaged. Don’t operate e-bikes with home built electrical systems. 

Can I still hunt in regional parks during fire season?  

Yes, but please shoot only in areas free of dry vegetation and avoid hunting on hot, windy days. Use lead-core bullets when possible as steel-core and copper ammunition are more likely to ignite vegetation. Tracer or incendiary rounds are not allowed. 

Can I bring fireworks to celebrate in the parks?  

No. Fireworks are prohibited year-round in regional parks due to their high fire risk. 

Where can I find more information?  

If you’re not sure if an activity or access is restricted in regional parks during fire season, check relevant park pages on this website, look out for signage at park entrances, or contact Greater Wellington on 0800 496 734 or info@gw.govt.nz if you have any questions.