In the past week our Customer Service team has had a lot of calls and questions about fire permits and whether it’s alright to light a fire. Whilst we are happy to help if you have questions about this, Fire and Emergency New Zealand are responsible for this. Anyone planning on lighting an open-air fire is always encouraged to visit www.checkitsalright.nz.

This is a really easy and handy tool which tells you whether you can light your fire, what the fire risk is, and what you should do to stay safe. Regular updates are also posted on their facebook page Hawke's Bay - Fire and Emergency (which includes the Tararua District). You can also call them at: 04 496 3600.

We have also had a lot of questions coming in about the repair works and road closures along the Pahiatua Track. Our team is glad to assist with questions about this when able, although these works are carried out by Waka Kotahi – NZ Transport Agency, along with other road works on State Highways which run through the Tararua District.

Prompt updates on NZTA road works and closures are provided on the Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Central North Island facebook page and  on their handy Journey Planner www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz which includes the latest updates on travel time, traffic cameras, and updates on delays, roadworks and road closures

Alternatively, you can call 0800 44 44 49 (24 hours) for the latest highway information. Haumarutia tō haere - Drive safe