Fire warning for Hawke's Bay
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is asking Hawke’s Bay residents to hold off lighting fires and to check any historic burn sites are completely out with high winds expected over the weekend.
"Please don’t light fires when strong winds are forecast," says Fire and Emergency Principal Rural Fire Officer Trevor Mitchell.
"The winds can cause a fire to more easily spread and get out of control."
"Anyone who has lit a fire should also double check it is fully extinguished so the winds don’t reignite it," Trevor Mitchell says.
"Dig right down into the site, open it up and put some water on it to make sure it is absolutely out."
Trevor Mitchell says people need to be extra careful as we go into a windy period of the year, especially with unusually dry weather.
"We’ve had half the usual rainfall we’d expect over winter in the Hawke’s Bay and there’s still a lot of dry materials around from last summer - meaning there is more fuel for a fire to burn," he says.
"Check the weather forecasts and take the necessary precautions to prevent a fire getting out of control."
"If you need any advice, get in touch with the Hawke's Bay Area Office on 06 835 2114 or go to www.checkitsalright.nz.... You can find information on that website about how to reduce the risk of fire."
"If you're concerned about a fire, call 111."
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.6% Yes
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22.1% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
CAROLS ON THE GREEN
Sunday 1 December, 4-6.30pm, on H N Village Green. Koha sausage sizzle, Santa, Bay Cities's Symphonic Band, Dianne Abraham, Men in Black, Hukarere Girls' College, carol singing. Bring your chairs and a picnic basket and join the festivities. If inclement weather, we'll move into the church.