Guy Fawkes season is upon us with fireworks going on sale in Tāmaki Makaurau very soon.
Fireworks are fun, but they can also be dangerous. Here’s a reminder on the rules and tips, so you, your friends and whānau can enjoy fireworks safely.
New Zealand has strict rules around the purchase and sale of fireworks.
They’re sold for four days leading up to and including Guy Fawkes (2 to 5 November 2025). You must be 18 years old and have a valid ID to buy fireworks.
Julie Pickering, Acting General Manager of Parks and Community Facilities asks Aucklanders to be mindful of others and act responsibly when letting off fireworks.
“Letting off fireworks on Guy Fawkes night is a fun event for those who choose to.
“However we ask Aucklanders to be considerate and mindful of others who don’t chose to participate and be mindful that some people, who could be your neighbours, and pets, can find the noise and lights of fireworks stressful.
“Please keep a close watch on your children when using fireworks and have water on hand to put out any fire that could start.”
“Aucklanders should also be aware that using fireworks in parks and on beaches across the region is not allowed.”
Muriwai beach access
Vehicle access to and from Te Oneone Rangatira / Muriwai Beach via Coast Road will close from 5am Sunday 2 November 2025 and re-open at 8am Monday 10 November 2025 ,to mitigate fire risk in the area.
Maunga
The Tūpuna Maunga Authority will close public access to 14 maunga across Tāmaki Makaurau from Sunday 2 November 2025 to Wednesday 5 November 2025 from 6.30pm to 7am, to protect them from fires.
Enjoying fireworks safely and responsibly
- Fireworks can only be set off on private property.
- It is illegal to light fireworks on council-controlled land (e.g., parks and beaches) anywhere in Tāmaki Makaurau.
- Fireworks must not be lit in forests, conservation areas, or on roads, berms, or footpaths.
- Always stand well back from fireworks once they are lit.
- Inform your neighbours if possible, and avoid using fireworks after 10 p.m.
- Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Read and follow all fireworks handling instructions carefully.
- Do not light fireworks in windy or dry conditions.
- Never point fireworks at people, animals, property, or vegetation.
- Ensure a responsible adult is present at all times.
- Keep pets indoors or away from the noise to prevent stress.
- On rural private land during Guy Fawkes (2–5 November), bonfires are allowed but must be:
- Lit during daylight hours, and
- Fully extinguished before nightfall.
- A permit is required during a Restricted Fire Season (check with Fire and Emergency New Zealand).
- Sky lanterns (Chinese lanterns) pose a fire risk if released — they must be secured.
- Do not store leftover fireworks after Guy Fawkes, as they may become unsafe.
- For restrictions and fire safety advice, visit the Fire and Emergency New Zealand website.
Looking out for pets during Guy Fawkes
Elly Waitoa, Auckland Council’s Animal Management Manager urges Aucklanders to pay particular attention to their pets leading into Guy Fawkes, and especially on the night itself.
“During the Guy Fawkes period please plan ahead and ensure your pets are safe and well-confined if you aren’t at home.
“Having a safe place inside for your pets is always a good idea and please give your pets extra care during Guy Fawkes.
“During this time, we usually see an increase in the number of dogs entering Auckland Council animal shelters so make sure your dog is registered and microchipped. This will make it easier for us to reunite you with your dog if it gets lost.”
