Check It’s Alright before you light fireworks this Guy Fawkes

31 October 2025

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is urging people to take greater care with fireworks this year.

National Manager Community Readiness and Recovery Adrian Nacey says crews responded to 166 calls last year, making it the worst year for fires caused by fireworks since 2019.

"Nine of those callouts were structure fires caused by fireworks. All these incidents put communities and our firefighters at risk and create an additional workload for our crews," he says.

Adrian Nacey says people should be vigilant when lighting fireworks, particularly with the recent high winds in many parts of the country.

"While there has been a fair bit of rain around across parts of the country, things do dry out quickly at this time of year and as we’ve seen over the last couple of weeks, the current conditions will certainly enable fires to spread and get out of control very fast."

He says Fire and Emergency encourages people to attend public fireworks displays, instead of lighting their own.

"Our preference is always that fireworks are best left in the hands of the professionals.

"But if you are going to light fireworks, you should always check the conditions first by heading to www.checkitsalright.nz.

"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.

"Check you have the landowner’s permission and remember that many public spaces have fireworks bans in place - this includes most council-managed parks and beaches," Adrian Nacey says.

"Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and not at people, pets or anyone’s home.

"Let your neighbours know if you are planning to set off fireworks and keep your pets inside.

"Lastly, dispose of your fireworks safely and soak them in water before you throw them out."

Adrian Nacey also reminds the public they are responsible for the fireworks they set off.

"Causing or allowing a fire to get out of control and spread to vegetation or property is an offence that can carry significant penalties," he says.

It is important that people do not stockpile fireworks for use over the summer months. 

"This is when the weather is much hotter, windier, and drier, and the fire risk is much higher."

You can find more guidance on how to lessen the risk of fire and injury when setting off fireworks at www.checkitsalright.nz.