Editorial: Public firework displays the way

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It's Guy Fawkes today and, as thousands of people across the Bay celebrate by letting off fireworks, the inevitable question of whether they should be banned is back in the spotlight.

But this time the push for such a ban is stronger.

A select committee will this week consider a 25,000-signature petition calling for a ban because of the impact fireworks displays have on animals - and Prime Minister John Key says he detects a gradual public shift towards a complete ban on private sales.

But the Prime Minister is clearly being cautious and is careful to point out that he is not interested in leading the change yet and is wary that an immediate ban could be construed as a nanny state move - something the former Clark Labour government was often accused of.

He is right to be careful because so many people love letting off fireworks.

They're a tradition and part of November life in many backyards. They provide children, and adults, with a treat and can be enjoyed as part of a barbecue or party.

And people are right to be concerned about having a nanny state. They could reasonably ask: what's next?

I share some of these concerns - but not when it comes to fireworks.

I editorialised three years ago that I might have enjoyed them as a child but dislike them immensely as an adult. My view then was that private sales should be banned and nothing has happened since to change my mind.

Fireworks might be fun for people using them but they're not necessarily fun for the people around them not taking part.

They're noisy and dangerous and they're are a nightmare for many animals, which are left frightened and distressed.

They also can pose a huge risk to humans and property.

Properly run public displays are much safer - although may not totally address the question of animals being scared. They are, however, a good compromise.

It's time for change. Mr Key should be bold and lead this change to ban private sales sooner, not later.