Sparks fly but Government won’t ban fireworks

The Government has no plans to change the law relating to fireworks, despite increasing calls from concerned groups for them to be banned.

Environment Minister David Benson-Pope, whose responsibilities include fireworks, said Parliament debated the issue in 1994 and in 1996 but decided that a few irresponsible people should not prevent others using fireworks.

It instead passed regulations limiting the strength of fireworks and putting an age limit of 14 on their use.

Mr Benson-Pope said he hoped New Zealanders would play it safe and "use their commonsense" with fireworks this year, and encouraged people to attend organised fireworks exhibitions.

"They're better value, safer and provide people with spectacular displays," he said.

"Those still wanting to let off their own fireworks should do so safely - respecting other people, their pets and property."

Despite a survey released by the Fire Service this week, which showed 54 per cent of New Zealanders thought private sales should be banned, and 82 per cent said the age limit should be raised, there is no political will to act.

Neither the Greens, National nor New Zealand First backed the call for a ban. The Maori Party and United Future did not respond.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), which has failed in previous bids to get a ban, will be making a fresh push to get the law changed by Guy Fawkes night next year.

National chief executive Robyn McDonald said New South Wales had banned personal-use fireworks and it had worked.

Only two Australian states now allow the private sale of fireworks.

She said fireworks caused hundreds of fires and injuries every Guy Fawkes night, as well as the deaths of many frightened animals.

"When you start to count the cost the figures are absolutely appalling."

Animal welfare shelters around the country will be collecting statistics on the numbers of animals injured during Guy Fawkes to strengthen the SPCA's case.

- NZPA