A No-No in Public Places

 

As the annual Guy Fawks event draws nearer (as does Rebekka’s Birthday of which both are on the same day) the Council sends a reminder to people about where you can let off fireworks.

From Auckland Council

Big bang ban in public places this Guy Fawkes

 

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, where the activity is banned.

The ban came into force in May this year and is aimed at protecting people, animals and property from the risks of fireworks.

While fireworks were banned in some parts of the region, they are now banned year-round in public places across the whole of Auckland.

Cr Cathy Casey, chair of Auckland Council’s Community Development and Safety Committee, says that the ban allows people and their pets to enjoy public places such as beaches and parks without the nuisance and risk of injury from uncontrolled use of fireworks.

“The ban also protects vegetation and property from fireworks damage, which unfortunately can be a regular occurrence around Guy Fawkes night.”

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 apply):

• 31 October – Clevedon Fireworks, Clevedon Showgrounds
• 14 November – Papakura Fireworks, Massey Park.

 

Gates at the following volcanic cones will close at the earlier time of 6pm from Sunday 2 November to Sunday 9 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
• Mt Albert
• Mt Roskill
• Maungakiekie – One Tree Hill Domain
• Maungarei – Mt Wellington.

 

Regulations on fireworks in public places can be found in Part Two of the Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw 2013, which came into force on 26 May 2014. The regulations state that:

• A person must not set off fireworks, flares or any other explosive material:
  • In a public place, except with the prior written approval of the council or a council  controlled organisation; and
  • In any other place, in a way that does or is likely to create a nuisance or endanger any person, property, dog or other animal in a public place.

—-ends—-

 

Just remember to be safe out there unless we you really want to be the one that triggers a nation-wide ban on private use of fireworks….