Fine for Hastings burn-off criticised as economic incentive to burn

Tuesday 12 August 2025 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 13 Aug 2025, 6:00am

In this story Hawke's Bay Regional Council

A $300 fine issued for a smoky burn-off in the Longlands area near Hastings has drawn criticism. Former Hawke's Bay Regional Council chairperson Rex Graham stated the penalty is not a deterrent and acts as an economic licence to burn. The July 27 fire breached regional airshed rules and exceeded air quality standards.

How they headlined it

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1. NZ HeraldTue 12 Aug 2025, 3:00pm

   Hawke’s Bay fires: Penalty of fine criticised as ‘economic incentive to burn’ (opens in new tab)

2. RNZTue 12 Aug 2025, 5:45pm

   Hawke’s Bay fires: Fine criticised as ‘economic incentive to burn’ (opens in new tab)

3. 1NewsWed 13 Aug 2025, 6:00am

   Hawke's Bay fires: $300 fine an 'economic incentive to burn' (opens in new tab)