Stores get ready for a cracker night

Barry Wah Lee stocks up on fireworks at his family's store in central Auckland. Photo / Martin Sykes

Whether you consider him a traitor, a hero, or the only man to enter Parliament with the right intention, there's no denying the popularity of Guy Fawkes' night.

This Thursday, November 5, marks the 404th anniversary of Mr Guido (Guy) Fawkes' 1605 attempt to destroy England's Houses of Parliament.

Barry Wah Lee, of Wah Lee's General Store in central Auckland, was yesterday stocking up on fireworks, in anticipation of a busy week.

The public can buy fireworks for four days from today, but must be over 18.

Wah Lee employee Duane Te Maari reckons customers were more interested in buying for more impressive displays since it became illegal for under 18s to buy the fireworks.

"There's been a change because of the age limit," he said. "They're going for more spectacular fireworks."

However, Mr Te Maari said this year's selection would be much the same as last year's.

Single fireworks, ranged in price from $1 for "ground spinners" up to about $15 for "four-shot" firecrackers, which exploded four times, erupting into showers of sparkles at the end.

"It's a nice firework actually," he said.

Value packs ranged from $10 a bag, up to a "huge" box for $250.

- NZ HERALD STAFF