As Kiwi-Indians celebrate Diwali, a few crackers have probably been popping around your neighbourhood.
It’s worth noting that New Zealand, and Auckland Council in particular, has clear rules around using fireworks, no matter which festival, to help keep the community safe.
With Auckland also heading into Guy Fawkes and the festive season, authorities are reminding residents to follow safety rules when using fireworks, bonfires, and sky lanterns.
With fire risks high, the council wants everyone to know where, when, and how these activities can be done safely to protect people, property, and the environment.
Restrictions on Firework Sales
Auckland residents are reminded that firework sales are strictly regulated, with sales permitted only during a four-day period from 2 November until 5 November each year.
Authorities emphasise that while these regulations control sales, they do not ban the use of fireworks at other times of the year.
Only Parliament has the authority to make new rules regarding the sale and control of fireworks, as outlined in the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) Regulations 2001.
Where and When Fireworks Can Be Used
Fireworks may be lit on private property from 5pm to 10.30pm every day throughout the year.
On New Year’s Eve, fireworks are permitted until 1am.
Lighting fireworks on council-controlled land such as beaches, parks, reserves, and Tūpuna Maunga (ancestral mountains) is prohibited. Fires are also banned in forests, conservation areas, and on roads, footpaths, or berms.
Firework Safety Guidelines
Fire and Emergency New Zealand stresses safe and considerate use of fireworks. Neighbours should be informed in advance where possible, and fireworks should be avoided after 10pm.
Users are advised to have water or fire extinguishers nearby, carefully follow handling instructions, avoid lighting fireworks in windy or dry conditions, and never point fireworks at people, animals, property, or vegetation.
A responsible adult should always be present, and pets should be kept indoors or moved to prevent stress.
Rules for Guy Fawkes Bonfires
Lighting outdoor fires in public areas, including beaches, parks, conservation areas, forests, road surfaces, berms, or footpaths, is illegal under the Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw 2013 unless prior approval is obtained.
Bonfires are also prohibited in residential areas at any time. In rural private areas, bonfires may be lit during Guy Fawkes (2–5 November) only during daylight hours and must be extinguished before nightfall.
A fire permit may be required from Fire and Emergency New Zealand during a Restricted Fire Season.
Sky Lantern Safety
Authorities caution that sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, pose a fire risk if allowed to float away. Use is permitted only if lanterns are secured to prevent them from drifting.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand continues to advise the public to follow all safety protocols to reduce fire hazards associated with fireworks, bonfires, and sky lanterns.
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