Remember, remember - Fireworks and controversy

As November 5th rears its head, NZ First party leader Winston Peters introduces a Bill to Ban Public Sales of Fireworks. 

Peters asserts that taxpayer money should not be used on something which inevitably causes fires and negatively impacts pets, saying fireworks have "outgrown any of the benefits".

The Bill will stop any retail sale, manufacturers and oversea importation - something that Christchurch local and animal owner, Emma Cox, hopes comes sooner rather than later. 

"I've had animals in the past that sit there shaking from the noise," says Cox.

National Manager of Community Readiness and Recovery, Adrian Nancey, says that Fire and Emergency crews responded to 166 callouts in 2024 during Guy Fawkes season alone, making it the worst year for firework-caused fires since 2019.

Since the sales of fireworks started on November the second, firefighters have issued a warning to Canterbury as temperatures rise, grass grows drier, and wind levels pick up in the summer months.

"Do not light fireworks if it is windy and make sure you have a safe set up when lighting your fireworks. Light them in a wide-open space, away from anything that could catch fire and have a bucket of water or hose nearby," says National Manager Adrian Nancey.

With the present fire risk, SPCA Chief Executive Todd Westwood says the effects of fireworks extends to pets and zoo animals.

New Zealand's largest animal welfare charity advocates annually for firework reform in the country, renewing their calls to strengthen education around firework use and banning the private sale and use of fireworks.

They say that every year, thousands of animals run the risk of injury or are traumatised by the loud bangs; leading to "panic, destructive behaviour, and long-term phobias."

“Every year, animals across Aotearoa suffer needlessly. Horses, farmed animals, zoo animals, marine life, and wild birds are all affected. It’s time for meaningful change,” says Westwood.

In partnership with RNZ Concert, SPCA promotes “Concert for Animals”, curated classical music for radio which airs from 6pm to midnight on 5 November. They have also created a playlist for use after the celebrations.