The Queenstown Lakes District council parks manager Gordon Bailey has accepted the role of principal rural fire officer.

Former principal fire officer Chris Gregory has moved from the district, leaving a vacancy in the position.

"Chris did an outstanding job for the community in this role and he will be missed," Mr Bailey said.

The council was currently looking to fill a new position of emergency services officer.

"That role will pick up civil defence responsibilities and education and possibly also the role of rural fire officer," Mr Bailey said.

In the meantime Mr Bailey intended meeting the rural fire teams in Makarora, Glenorchy, Kingston and Arrowtown and informally reviewing any issues that may arise out of that process.

"These volunteers deserve the deepest respect from our community and it?s important that they continue to feel fully supported by the council," Mr Bailey said.

Already the summer was predicted to be a 'dry' season, with some major fires already occurring early in the season.

"It's important that people remember that this district has a restricted fire season all year round. That means if you want to light a fire you need a permit either from the Department of Conservation, Lakes Contract Services or CivicCorp, depending on location," he said.

It was likely that as in other years a fire ban would be applied during the summer.

"It's also timely to remind the community to take extreme care when lighting fireworks this year. Basically make sure the environment is controlled away from any kind of vegetation and housing, have hoses or water on hand and call 111 immediately if a fire is suspected," he said.

Mr Bailey also urged parents to take responsibility for children and teenagers and fireworks.

"If you or your child is responsible for a costly fire then there is potential for costs to be sought," Mr Bailey said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Gordon Bailey 03 441 0499.

By: Sarah