What's the go on private fireworks displays?

There's a grey area when it comes to private fireworks displays in Auckland - you can have them, but only if they don't bother your neighbours.  

Nevertheless Auckland Council has allowed a private fireworks display in rural Rodney, despite neighbours' vocal opposition.

It has also been claimed the council makes conditions so tough on planned public fireworks displays in the central city, promoters have no choice but to cancel. 

MATTHEW CATTIN/STUFF

Waitoki resident Damien Grant will continue his annual fireworks displays, despite neighbours' protests.

On Thursday, Waitoki locals expressed their "anguish" local businessman Damien Grant was able to put on a "huge" fireworks display each year for his child's birthday.

So what exactly is Auckland Council's position on fireworks?

A council spokesperson said fireworks cannot be let off in a public place without prior approval.

In general, fireworks displays on residential property are not controlled by the council, however according to the council's Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw, fireworks can't be let off on private property "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".

There may be provisions relating to noise under the Auckland Unitary Plan or the Resource Management Act, but this would depend on factors like the level of noise, and the time and duration of the display.

"We would advise anyone concerned about fireworks displays on nearby properties to speak to their neighbours in the first instance. We recommend finding out the time and duration of the fireworks, and keeping pets inside during this time," the spokesperson said. 

Since the council imposed conditions on fireworks in public places in 2014, celebrations have been restricted to private properties and public events.

Grant said his display would last between 7 - 10 minutes and would have the same pyrotechnics as a standard fireworks display, similar to that seen "at a rugby game".

"I've got a five-year-old who wants fireworks, and I want fireworks - I want to see them. I've been wiring them all up, and it's fun."

"I think park of the reason adults put on fireworks shows is to show off to our kids, which I know sounds silly but when you think about it, I think that's right. I think I think we enjoy putting on the fireworks for our children more then the children actually enjoy it."

Grant said as well as notifying the council, he had also notified Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ). 

FENZ offered this advice to those considering putting on private fireworks displays:

- Do not use fireworks after 10.30pm, and try to let your neighbours know in advance

- If you're in a rural area, make sure you do not set off fireworks around farm animals

- If you get burned, hold your burn under cold running water for 20 minutes

- Keep your pets inside

- Don't light fireworks in windy or dry conditions

- Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions before using any fireworks

- Light your fireworks in a wide-open area, away from anything that could catch fire, like dry grass, leaves or crops, or flammable gases or liquids

- Keep a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher handy.