Introduction: A Necessary Precaution

Here in Wellington, where the natural beauty is something we all cherish, sometimes we have to make tough calls for safety. The Greater Wellington Regional Council has decided to close parts of East Harbour Regional Park, specifically Parangarahu Lakes and Baring Head, from 1pm to 9pm every day because of the extreme risk of fires. This isn’t just a random decision; it’s about keeping us all safe. Let’s dive into why this is happening, what it means for us, and how we can still enjoy our outdoor time safely.

The Science Behind the Closure

So, why the closure? It’s all about the weather and the environment right now. Wellington can get pretty dry in summer, and that’s when fires love to start. The fire risk has shot up to ‘red’, which is the highest level, meaning fires can start from almost anything and spread like wildfire – literally.

Fire Risk Assessment

According to Fire and Emergency New Zealand, when we’re at a red alert:

• Fires can ignite from the smallest spark.
• They spread super fast and are tough to get under control.
• The weather’s hot, dry, and windy, which just fans the flames.

Details of the Closure

The parks are closed during the hottest part of the day, from 1pm to 9pm, because that’s when the risk is at its peak. Here’s what’s affected:

• Parangarahu Lakes: Some spots where you can’t easily escape if a fire starts are off-limits.
• Baring Head/Ōrua-pouanui: The Ridge Track is a no-go zone right now, it’s too exposed and far from water.

Public Safety Measures

Ricky Clarkson, who’s in charge of the Eastern Parks, says this closure is all about keeping everyone safe. “We didn’t want to do this, but we have to look out for you, our visitors, and our staff,” he explains.

Community Impact and Response

This closure hits home for many of us who love these parks for a bit of peace, exercise, or just to hang out. Here’s how we’re all dealing with it:

Community Engagement

Greater Wellington’s been great about keeping us in the loop:

• They’ve been posting updates everywhere – social media, local news, you name it.
• There are signs all over the park entrances telling us when and where it’s closed.

Alternative Activities

Since we can’t go to Parangarahu Lakes or Baring Head during these hours, here are some other spots:

• Belmont Regional Park or Queen Elizabeth Park might be safer bets with less fire risk.
• Or, why not check out some indoor activities or stroll through the Wellington Botanic Garden?

Fire Prevention and Safety Tips

We all have a part to play in preventing fires. Here are some tips from Greater Wellington and FENZ:

When Visiting Parks

• Always check if the park’s open before you head out. Greater Wellington’s website is your go-to.
• Know where you are in the park and how to get out quickly if you need to.
• Skip the BBQs and cigarettes; they’re fire starters in these conditions.

In Case of Fire

Ricky advises, “If you spot smoke or a fire and think it’s risky, dial 111 and ask for Fire. The quicker we know, the better we can handle it.”

Looking Forward: Monitoring and Management

Greater Wellington isn’t just sitting back; they’re on it:

Continuous Assessment

• They’re keeping an eye on the weather and fire risk, adjusting park access as needed.
• They work closely with FENZ to share info and plan responses.

Future Preparedness

Looking ahead, they’re planning to:

• Make the parks safer with things like firebreaks and better water access.
• Educate us more on fire safety with workshops and campaigns.

Conclusion: A Community United in Safety

Closing parts of our beloved parks isn’t easy, but it’s about keeping us safe from the real threat of wildfires. Greater Wellington’s proactive approach shows they care about us. While we can’t enjoy Parangarahu Lakes and Baring Head in the afternoons for now, let’s stay vigilant, follow the safety tips, and support the efforts to manage our parks. One Network Wellington Live will keep you posted on when it’s safe to return. Let’s look forward to cooler, safer days together.