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Last modified: 15 Feb 2023 10:28am

The top of a thin pole in a forest with electronic equipment attached to the top and a solar panel half-way up

New sensor technology designed to detect fires in real-time will soon be available in McHughs Forest Park near Darfield, as the Council begins piloting the technology on its reserves.

The Council and partner Spark New Zealand, with technology innovator Attentis, will begin installing the sensors during February and March.  Three sensors will be installed at the reserve, using a combination of thermal imaging, 360° cameras, and air quality technology to monitor environmental conditions in the forest and notify emergency services if any sign of fire is detected.

The project is a partnership between the Council and Spark New Zealand. Christchurch City Council has also been trialing the technology and the data between the two projects will be shared with a view to assessing further opportunities to use the technology to protect residents in high risk fire areas.

The sensors are self-powered and use a combination of artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technology—a system of interrelated computers and machines that can transfer data across a network without needing people-topeople or people-to-computer interaction.

Mayor Sam Broughton says the sensors will play a key role protecting the reserve, including its walking and cycling tracks from potential fire.

“We’re really excited about what this technology will mean for McHughs Forest. Having real-time, 24-hour monitoring in place means we can keep an eye on conditions and ensure emergency services are alerted straight away if something catches alight. This is important because of how close the forest is to homes and local businesses.”

Council Enabling Services Group Manager Kelvin Mason says information from the sensors will be available to residents.

“The sensors not only provide early fire detection, but also monitor environmental conditions. Once the sensor poles have been installed, visitors will be able to check the weather as well as things such as pollen levels at the reserve, live from the Council website.”