The government has rejected a parliamentary recommendation to ban the public sale and private use of fireworks.

More than 93,000 people signed petitions requesting a ban in 2024 and 2025. The following year, the petitions committee reviewed the issue, speaking to various organisations. Fire and Emergency, the SPCA, the Veterinary Association, Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Aotearoa and the Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, all strongly recommended a ban.

In April, 2026, the committee presented their report, saying, “We find it difficult to do anything other than recommend a ban on the public sale and private use of fireworks.”

Now, three months later, the government has presented its response: “The government has decided to retain the current regulatory framework.”

Starring Albert Acland, the dog.
Directed, filmed and edited by Isaiah Tour.
Written and presented by Robbie Nicol
Made with the support of NZ On Air.