Objectives and functions of FENZ
The principle objections of Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) are:
(a) to reduce the incidence of unwanted fire and the associated risk to life and property:
(b) in relation to its functions:
(i) to protect and preserve life; and
(ii) to prevent or limit injury; and
(iii) to prevent or limit damage to property and land; and
(iv) to prevent or limit damage to the environment.
Functions of FENZ include:
- Issuing fire permits for lighting fires in the open.
- Monitoring the fire risk and determining when it is too hazardous to light fires in the open.
- Determining the fire season for the West Coast and New Zealand (and when permits are required).
- Education and training of fire forces.
- Maintaining an operative Fire Plan, weather stations and a West Coast wide fire danger warning system.
- Fighting and putting out wild fires and other types of fires that get out of control in the open.
Responsibilities
The overall responsibility for fires in the open sits with Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ).
As part of the transition arrangements over the 2017/2018 year, fire suppression support is currently provided through Council's contractors. Fire-fighting plant and equipment previously owned by Council has been transferred to FENZ for their continued use locally.
The total Rural Fire Zone area managed by FENZ within the Grey District and the total extent of area compared to the total West Coast Fire District is shown below:
