Most wildfires in New Zealand are started by people, either on purpose or by accident.
Although known for its green farmland and flowing rivers, Waimakariri also contains wide areas of dry grassland, rural properties, lifestyle blocks, and foothill scrub. These areas can become very fire‑prone during hot, windy periods.
Strong nor’west winds – a common weather feature in North Canterbury – can push fire quickly across open landscapes.
Protect your property from a wildfire
Rural communities, in particular, need to stay aware of fire danger levels, follow seasonal fire restrictions, and maintain defensible space around homes.
Here are some steps you can take to protect your property from a wildfire:
- Keep your grass short and green, if possible, around buildings on your property.
- Keep gutters and areas around decks clear of dead leaves, debris and pine needles.
- Remove highly flammable plants close to buildings on your property. This includes avoiding bark mulch or similar ground coverings.
- Plant low flammability plants.
- If you have a RAPID number, make sure it is visible at your property entrance. Your accessway must be wide enough for a fire engine (4m wide by 4m high).
Visit the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website to learn how to prepare your property from a wildfire.
Follow the Rural Property Checklist.
How to pile burn safely
Clearing vegetation on your property? Find out how to safely carry out a burn pile on your property to achieve your objectives, prevent fire from escaping, and minimise the risk of property damage and harm to others.
Before lighting a burn pile, visit checkitsalright.nz.
More information
- Find more practical tips on the Fire and Emergency NZ website.
- Visit getready.govt.nz to learn how to get ready before a wildfire, and what to do if one happens.
- Follow updates about fires happening in Waimakariri and other parts of Canterbury on Canterbury Fire and Emergency’s Facebook page.
- Learn how to get through a civil defence emergency in Waimakariri.