Categories
0 New Fire Restrictions for Hawkes Bay and Tararua
Prohibited and restricted fire seasons for Hawke's Bay Fire and Emergency New Zealand is enforcing a total fire ban on open-air fires and fireworks, including paper lanterns, in the Ahuriri-Heretaunga and Tukituki East zones of the Hawke’s Bay. This takes effect from 8am on Monday 15 December, until further notice. During a prohibited fire season, no fires are allowed in the open and all fire permits are suspended. Crews have responded to 15 vegetation fire callouts in the last 30 days in this zone. This area has experienced prolonged dry conditions, and with no significant rain forecast in the next two weeks, the risk too great. Fireworks are well known to start fires in these dry conditions, and we’ve seen them start in this zone in previous years. All it takes is one spark for a devastating wildfire to spread. The Wairoa Inland, Tararua West and Tararua Central zones of the Hawke’s Bay will also be moving into a restricted fire season as of 8am on Monday 15 December, until further notice. A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an open-air fire will need to obtain a permit, which you can apply for at www.checkitsalright.nz. These areas have seen consistently warm days and not much rain, which is set to continue. Go to checkitsalright.nz and enter your address to find out what fire season you are in, and if you are allowed to light an open-air fire, what conditions you must meet to light one. We urge everyone to think very carefully before they plan any kind of fire or apply for a fire permit. Our job is to protect people, property and the environment and placing these restrictions will give us greater control over burning in our District.
0 Devils Elbow planned closures January 2026
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi - Hawke’s Bay & Gisborne We’ll be closing a section of the road overnight in January/February to rebuild 4.5km of the road surface with asphalt, in order to create a smoother drive over the numerous underslip repairs at Devil’s Elbow on SH2.The new stretch of asphalt will be the final Devil’s Elbow project after two years of Cyclone Gabrielle recovery work in the area.From Sunday 18 January to Thursday 5 February SH2 between Waikoau Hill and Aropaoanui Road at Tangoio will be closed overnight in both directions (5 nights each week). Closure times are 9pm to 5am Sunday to Thursday nights. We’ll reopen the road each morning at 5am, and it’ll be open Friday and Saturday nights.Roadworkers will be working at night when there are fewer people travelling to minimise disruption as much as possible. Crews and machinery will be working across both lanes, with two asphalt pavers operating side-by-side from the north to the south, laying approximately 3,000 tonnes of asphalt during this closure. A full road closure also means the work will be completed much faster.There will be no viable detours so please plan your travel around the closure times.If bad weather or other construction delays the work, the backup nights are Sunday 8 February midnight (12am) to 5am, and then Monday 9 to Friday 13 February (four nights), 9pm to 5am each night.Find out more about the closures: https://Lert.nz/s?=sFYou can keep up to date with our work by following this page and subscribing to our newsletter: https://confirmsubscription.com/h/t/43D7D651F36208CD
0 Yellow Legged Hornet Update Dec 12th 2025
Source - Gemini AI An update on the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) situation in Auckland, based on recent reports: Biosecurity New Zealand is continuing its enhanced response to the yellow-legged hornet detections in the Glenfield and Birkdale areas of Auckland's North Shore. Key Developments Expanded Surveillance Zone: The surveillance zone around the detection sites has been extended from 5km to 11km based on advice from an independent technical advisory group. This expansion aims to provide greater assurance that the incursion is a single, contained population. The extended zone now covers significant parts of Auckland, including the CBD. Destruction of Queens and Nests: As of the latest updates (around December 11, 2025), a total of 34 queen hornets and 22 nests have been successfully located and destroyed. Intensified Search and Trapping: Nearly 650 traps have been deployed within a 5km radius of the detection sites. Over 3,500 properties have been searched within 200 metres of confirmed finds. Engagement with Beekeepers: The extended 11km zone involves working closely with over 575 registered apiaries, with traps being placed near hives and information provided on monitoring. New Technology: Electronic tracking gear is being purchased, and UK experts are guiding the process of attaching transmitters to foraging worker hornets to trace them back to their nests. Public Reports: Public support remains strong, with over 5,610 public notifications received so far, which Biosecurity New Zealand stresses is their best surveillance tool. What Biosecurity New Zealand is Saying Biosecurity New Zealand expects to find more hornets over the summer due to the increased surveillance efforts and urges the public and beekeepers to remain vigilant, particularly ahead of an expected lift in foraging by worker hornets. ⚠️ How to Report a Suspected Sighting If you see a suspected yellow-legged hornet or nest, do not attempt to remove or control it yourself. Take a clear photo if possible and report it immediately: Online: report.mpi.govt.nz Hotline: 0800 809 966 (Exotic Pest and Disease Hotline) Check out his video on hornets and making a trap . https://youtu.be/_I5UOyBF9v0 New Zealands most comprehensive alert service - Lert.Info
0 Humidex - What it is and why it matters.
Humidex is an index that takes into account the temperature and the humidity. It's a measure of how hot air and humidity combine to make an index. Its value is however not a felt temperature, but an index indicator of how the combination could affect you. When is the humidex used? Lert Info's humidex alerts are sent when when the index increases to about 35Deg where your health can be compromised … Key Physical Concerns (Health): Heat-Related Illnesses: These are direct threats to physical health caused by the body struggling to cool itself. They exist on a spectrum: Heat Cramps (painful muscle spasms from salt/fluid loss). Heat Exhaustion (heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, rapid pulse, pale/clammy skin). Heat Stroke (a life-threatening medical emergency with a very high body temperature, confusion, and potential loss of consciousness). Dehydration: Excessive loss of body fluids and electrolytes through sweating, leading to symptoms like thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Worsening Chronic Conditions: The added strain on the heart and lungs from working harder to cool the body can severely worsen existing conditions like cardiovascular or respiratory diseases. A Humindex index of about 35 is when you experience some symptoms. (see chart). Above 30deg humidex, breathing can become difficult and the heaviness of the air unbearable for some. The colour gradient on the table shows the increasing discomfort and risks of the higher index. When heat is combined with too much humidity, drinking plenty of water is no longer enough and the discomfort quickly becomes possibly life-threatening. Symptoms of light headedness, lack of energy, pounding heart, change in breathing could indicate you are feeling the effects. A temperature of 35 degrees with dry air, is not felt in the same way as a temperature of 35 degrees with humid air. The heat is higher, the comfort lower and the discomfort greater. The humidex helps you better understand how your body reacts to the day's temperature, by effectively integrating heat and humidity. To get Hundex alerts - www.lert.info
0 Fire restrictons as at Nov 30th 2025
Current Fire Restrictions in New Zealand (as of November 30, 2025)Fire restrictions in New Zealand are managed by Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) and vary by district based on weather, fuel dryness, and recent fire activity. November marks the start of the high-risk summer fire season, so restrictions are common in drier northern and eastern regions. Restrictions fall into three main categories: Prohibited: No outdoor fires allowed (including BBQs and fireworks). This is the strictest level, often due to high fire danger. Restricted: Outdoor fires require a free permit from FENZ (apply at firepermit.nz or call 0800 658 628). Gas/electric BBQs may be allowed without a permit in some cases. Open: No restrictions; fires can be lit responsibly without a permit. Always check the official interactive map at checkitsalright.nz for your exact location, as statuses can change daily. Recent events, like the Tongariro National Park fire (fully contained as of mid-November), have heightened vigilance in central areas.Key Regions with Active RestrictionsBased on the latest available data, here's a summary of major areas with prohibitions or restrictions. (Note: South Island regions like Canterbury and Otago are more likely to be open this early in the season, but dry spells can trigger changes.) Region/District Status Details Northland Restricted (with some prohibited pockets) Permits required for outdoor fires. Total bans were in place earlier in 2025 due to dry conditions but have eased slightly. Check for wind-related updates. Auckland Restricted Permits needed; urban areas have additional bylaws banning fires in public spaces. Fireworks sales are allowed (Nov 2–5), but use is restricted to private property. Waikato (Northern) Restricted to Prohibited Permits required; northern zones (e.g., near Hamilton) may have full bans due to ongoing dry weather. Coromandel sub-zone recently under prohibited status. Bay of Plenty Restricted Permits mandatory; heightened risk near coastal areas. Hawke's Bay Restricted (post-ban) Temporary total bans lifted after October storms, but permits still required. Avoid lighting fires during windy conditions. Manawatu-Wanganui (incl. Tongariro) Restricted Permits needed, especially around Tongariro National Park following the recent 2,935-hectare fire. DOC land has year-round restrictions. Wellington Open to Restricted Urban bans on public fireworks; rural areas may need permits if dry. Canterbury Restricted Permits required in rural zones; urban Christchurch is generally open but monitor for changes. Additional Rules Public Conservation Land (DOC-managed): Year-round restricted season—only authorized fire types (e.g., contained gas stoves) allowed, no open ground fires. Prohibited during any FENZ red alert. Fireworks: Sales limited to November 2–5, but bans apply in prohibited areas. Local councils (e.g., Auckland, Wellington) restrict use to private property only. How to Comply: Use the FENZ app or website for real-time alerts. If lighting a fire, clear a 10m radius, have water/extinguishers ready, and never leave it unattended. For the most precise info, visit checkitsalright.nz or contact FENZ. Stay safe—summer fires can spread quickly!
0 Aurora may appear November 12th or 13th
Heads Up from Nathaniel Fittock Just a heads up, We could be in for some Aurora activity tonight and tomorrow. NOAA has predicted this to be a sizable solar storm. It has the "potential" to be as big as the October Aurora last year. The Queenstown Cam is a good camera to get a visual on active Aurora https://queenstown.roundshot.com/ And this app is extremely good at showing New Zealand space weather and current auroral conditions (in my opinion the best because it's made for New Zealand conditions and has a 3D visualization of incoming CMEs) https://spottheaurora.co.nz And the NOAA Facebook page for the latest information on incoming solar events https://www.facebook.com/share/14M9EJ775NT/ And Huxt for the long range forecast https://research.reading.ac.uk/met-spate/huxt-forecast/ A major geomagnetic storm is now underway across the planet. This has the potential to become a top shelf extreme G5 storm for earth in the next 24 hours after last night's goliath CME is to follow this initial impact. A satellite & electrical grid predator has arrived. (Hauraki Gulf Weather) Just to notes: NOAA and Huxt use UTC time, so add 12 hours for NZ time.
0 Food or product recalls November 1st to 11th
Product recalls since November 1st Some of these pose a health or life risk. For details:- Product recalls - Click Here Food recalls: - Click Here 6-Sided Cube Toy- sold at Panda Mart Crywolf Baby Hooded Towels- Lucky Picnic, Lucky Days, Little Lobsters Rubber Duck Figurines- sold at Timezone Fantastic Four Illuminated Cups- sold at Hoyts Cinemas New Zealand Music Cube- sold at Panda Mart Magnetic Fidget Pens People4ocean- SPF 50+ Mineral Bioactive Shield Lightly Tinted Cream Nothing Naughty brand Premium Pea Protein Natural Caramel. Educational Colours - Rainbow Sand and Creatistics - Coloured Sand - Various Colours We send alerts somewhere in NZ every day. To get your own personal alerts, including Civil Defence, exclusive alerts, closed roads, weather, wildfires, and a raft of other categories, it only takes a jiffy to register for free at www.lert.info
0 Tongariro National Park fire doubles in size over night
Sunday, November 9, 2025, mid-morning (NZDT). The situation has escalated overnight: Estimated Size Has increased significantly to approximately 1,000 hectares (from an earlier estimate of 300-400 hectares). Control Status - The fire is not under control and remains a significant threat.Firefighting Efforts Operations resumed at first light (dawn). Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) has a major response underway, including:6 fire trucks and 5 tankers on the ground. 6 helicopters and 2 fixed-wing aircraft for aerial support. Risk The fire is burning toward Mount Ngauruhoe and progressed up the Mangatepopo Road towards the Tongariro Crossing overnight. Structures/Evacuations There are no reports of structures being damaged or further resident evacuations overnight. Cause The cause of the blaze is still unknown. A specialist wildfire investigator is working today.Closures and Public SafetyTongariro Alpine Crossing & Northern Circuit: These tracks are closed today (Sunday, Nov 9) and likely until the fire is controlled. State Highway 47: Remains closed between the intersections with SH48 and SH46. Travel alternatives are in the image. Airspace: A no-fly zone is in place over the fireground to ensure the safety of firefighting aircraft. Local Residents: Residents are advised to stay alert, and keep doors and windows shut due to smoke. Those feeling unsafe are encouraged to self-evacuate toward Turangi (north) or National Park (south).
0 Road Closure: SH7 Reefton to Springs Junction (Rahu Saddle)
Road Works Due to culvert replacement works, this section of road will be closed in both directions on Tuesday 4th November between 8am and 4pm and on Wednesday 5th November between 8am and 12pm. In addition, the road will close on Wednesday 5th November between 1pm and 5pm with the road reopening every hour to allow queued traffic through the site. Various temporary traffic management will be in place on Thursday 6th November between 8am and 4pm. Plan your journey accordingly. Detour route During closures. detour via SH65, SH6 and SH69. Please note this detour will add approximately one and a half hours to your journey time. On Thursday 6th November, expect up to 30 minute delays Start 4 Nov 2025 8:00am End 6 Nov 2025 4:00pm Expected resolution Until further notice Last updated 4 Nov 2025 8:00am
0 Darfield fire extinguished promptly.
A fire in Darfield at the time of writing was quickly brought under control today, but still destroyed three structures. It's a timely reminder that Fire season is now with us, so we're including maps for areas with high to extreme fire risks as at Tuesday Nov 5th If you want to light a fire of ANY kind, you can check here for your location where ever you are. If you go to a beach and want to have a BBQ, just enter the details and you will probably get that locations latest status as well. Please report any suspicious smoke immediately (Ph 111) and don't assume FENZ have already been alerted, you may be the first to call. We monitor multiple sources for fire information and we can alert you ASAP but you have to be registered. It takes just 2mins at www.lertinfo.co.nz
0 Lions Mane Jellyfish now on the Tasman beaches
Lion's mane jellyfish get their name from their spectacular, flowing tentacles that look like a lion's mane. Here in New Zealand waters, they're typically around 50 centimetres across, though they can grow much larger, over two metres, in colder northern regions. The bigger ones tend to stay further out to sea. What they look like: • Young jellyfish are light orange, tan, or sometimes nearly see-through • Adults are reddish and get darker as they age Where and when to spot them: These jellyfish drift near the water's surface (within 20 metres of the top) and rely on ocean currents to get around, as they're not strong swimmers. You're most likely to see them washed up on our beaches during spring and summer, as that's when they've reached their full size and currents push them toward shore. Heads up: While admiring these beautiful creatures is fine, remember that their tentacles can sting, so it's best to look but not touch – even if they're stranded on the beach! Important Safety Tips • Lion’s mane tentacles can deliver a painful sting, though they are not usually dangerous. • Swimmers can wear rash vests or wetsuits for protection. • Keep dogs away from jellyfish. If ingested, seek veterinary advice immediately. Treating a jellyfish sting (for people and dogs): 1. Flush the stung area with sea water (or fresh water if unavailable) to remove tentacles. 2. Use a dry towel to remove any remaining tentacles. Wear gloves if possible. 3. Soak the stung area in heated tap water (up to 45°C) for 15-20 minutes. Repeat as needed for up to two hours, with breaks to cool the skin. 4. Take pain relief after hot-water soaking. 5. Seek medical aid if symptoms of an allergic reaction occur.
0 Food Recalls for Friday October 3rd
Reduced to Clear Limited is recalling specific batches of Piper’s brand Milkshake Biscuits in Original and Caramel flavours due to the presence of an undeclared allergen (pistachio). Additionally, a specific batch of Fresh Life Chopped Peanuts are recalled as they may contain metal. For full details Click Here
Ida Valley and Māniatoto – ESSENTIAL TRAVEL ONLY. Please stay off the roads. Thick snow is affecting roads. If your travel isn’t essential in Māniatoto and Ida Valley areas, the advice is to stay at home. Road Closures: Danseys Pass Road CLOSED from the gates passed the Danseys Pass hotel.
0 Product Recalls for Wednesday October 1st
There are multiple car seat recalls for Panda Mart Brand Car Seats. The seats may not comply with the Car seat standards and may pose a potential risk for Children You should immediately stop using the car seat and return it to Panda Mart Auckland or Christchurch for a refund. Moving on to another product, there are two Zenith taps recalled – Chilltap Extra 60 and Chilltap Extra 140. A number of units have a defect, and water drawn through them may contain more cadmium than acceptable in NZ. Prolonged Cadmium exposure is linked to serious adverse health effects. Stop using these and contact Zenith immediately for a free replacement and installation. The product recalls link for more information is - Product recalls
1 Food and product recalls as at July 9th 2025
We have new food and product recalls over the last couple of weeks. Food recalls - Click Here These include foreign matter in processed food and also allergens that are undeclared such as fish, milk, peanuts, eggs etc Product recalls - Click Here . Some are for baby items, there's a deep fryer, power adapters, and more. For food and product recalls, we can send you an alert. Just register at www.lert.info . The food recalls are especially useful if someone has an allergy, as many items can have an allergen but it's not on the labelling
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