Private fireworks display causes 'anguish' to local Waitoki residents
Waitoki resident Damien Grant puts on a fireworks display each year for his child's birthday.
Neighbours in a rural Auckland community are "anguished" a local businessman is able to put on a "huge" fireworks display each year.
North Auckland, resident Anna Paratene keeps three horses, three dogs, two cats and chickens on her Waitoki property.
The 52-year-old mum says the annual fireworks display - put on by businessman and Sunday Star-Times columnist Damien Grant to celebrate his child's birthday - causes her anguish each year.
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She has tried to get the displays banned by contacting council, police and her local MP but, so far, nothing has happened.
"I contacted NZ Worksafe last year, and they found that he had not contacted them, so I nearly got last year's display stopped, however, they rang him, which then gave him a couple of days to give them the correct notification.
I spoke to the council by-laws officer who issued him a permit last year, and asked him why he didn't have to talk to neighbours to see how this display impacts on us, but he wouldn't really answer," Paratene says.
She says the display spooks her animals, who she has to sedate or try and move at her own cost.
Damien Grant planning fireworks for his son's birthday.
"I am literally at my wits end and now want to move out," Paratene says.
Grant posted a message to the community Facebook page inviting neighbours to see the display.
"If you would like to come up to our place to see the fireworks then please do. They are best seen up close and we have enough space to accommodate everyone. The fireworks will be after dark, about 7pm. The more the merrier. Just rock up. Last year quite a few locals did and it was great.
"Last year there was some malarky with the vehicles, so this year we have hired some very polite chaps to ensure everyone's property is safe, and I really hope that this does not prevent anyone who wants to come up and enjoy the show.
"I do realise and acknowledge that this can cause some livestock, horses in particular, some distress and I apologise for that. I accept it is a significant inconvenience and I can only thank those impacted for their understanding," the post said.
- Rodney Times
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