Thread: fires on doc land

Originally Posted by Ranger 888

Common sense is essential but be aware, the former Rural Fire Authority (now replaced by Fire and Emergency NZ) had the ability to charge the full cost of fire suppression for a fire that got out of control. There was a case in the Kaimanawa Ranges a few years ago when a hunter received a bill for $250K after his camp fire ripped through tussock and into a pine plantation. If you have a fire, make sure you have the means to extinguish it if it runs away!

Can I suggest you consult the FENZ ACt on the potential liability to pay for fire supression?

You're correct that under the previous legislation ( Forest and Rural Fires Act) a prerson causing a fire was liable for supression costs, while someone who caused a fire 'in town' wasn't. The FENZ Act now 'equalises' that, so no one is automatically liable for supression costs.

As an aside, that renders one of the arguments for belonging to a club (often members would be covered by the club's liability cover) largely redundant.