Aucklanders wanting to celebrate Guy Fawkes are urged to find a public display or keep to their backyards – and not let off fireworks in public places such as parks or beaches, where the activity is banned.

Fireworks can still be let off on private property, but in a move to protect people, animals and property, they were banned in public places across the whole of Auckland in 2013.

Cr Cathy Casey, Chair of Auckland Council’s Community Development and Safety Committee, says the ban resulted in zero fire callouts in Auckland public parks last year.

“The ban is working and allows people and their pets to enjoy public places without the nuisance and risk of injury from the uncontrolled use of fireworks,” she says.

Fire safety

Auckland Council principal rural fire officer Bryan Cartelle urges caution this Guy Fawkes.

“Auckland is experiencing changeable and windy weather which increases the fire risk. With Guy Fawkes around the corner, it’s a timely reminder to take care when using fireworks or having bonfires at home,” he says.

Mr Cartelle says people should consider the safety rules when using fireworks; do not use on dry and windy days, or close to light, flammable vegetation.

“Anyone considering bonfires in rural areas need to ensure that the fire is lit during daylight hours and settled for nightfall, and that they use dry and brown vegetation to limit the smoke nuisance,” he says.

The New Zealand Fire Service supports the ban, saying it is in favour of any measure that encourages professionally-run public fireworks displays.

Pet safety

Even with the ban in place, the days surrounding fireworks night are the busiest of the year for animal management officers out in the field, picking up lost and stray pets.

Last year council’s shelters were completely full, with pets often sporting injuries from being so scared and determined to escape the noises. Some pets were involved in traffic accidents as they tried to find safety.

Cr Casey says members of the public should call 09 301 0101 to report fireworks incidents and lost pets.

“Please remember that your pets need your reassurance, and if you cannot stay home with them, ensure they are safe and very well confined,” says Cr Casey.

Pets that are microchipped and registered have the greatest chance of being quickly reunited with their families in the post-Guy Fawkes recovery.

Public displays

Cr Casey says that public firework displays around Auckland will allow people to enjoy fireworks safely.

“Public fireworks displays are a great way to enjoy fireworks with your community and the health and safety risks are well managed.”

Public fireworks displays this year include the following (entry fees may apply):

• Monster Firework Display, Kumeu Showgrounds, Kumeu, 30 October

• St Kentigern’s Primary School, Hobson Bay Walkway, Remuera, 31 October

• Papatoetoe Diwali , Eric Backer Place, Papatoetoe  - Friday 31 Oct 2015

·       Manukau Festival of Lights – Diwali 2015  - Manukau Sports Bowl Carpark  - Friday 31 Oct 2015

·        Ponsonby School, Pt Erin Park, 6 November

·       Papakura Fireworks Display  - Massey Park, Papakura  - Friday 6 November

• Waiheke Dirt Track Club, O’Brien Road, Rocky Bay, Waiheke - Council is permitting parking for the event at Onetangi Sports Park

• Spooks and Sparks at Trusts Arena, 65-67 Central Park Drive, Henderson, 7 November.

Gates at the following volcanic cones will close at the earlier time of 6pm from Sunday 1 November to Sunday 8 November (inclusive) to reduce congestion and the risk to people as they walk to the summits to view firework displays:

·       Takarunga / Mt Victoria

·       Maungawhau / Mt Eden

·       Owairaka / Mt Albert

·       Puketepapa / Mt Roskill

·       Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill Domain

·       Maungarei / Mt Wellington

Ends