Fireworks will soon go on sale in Tāmaki Makaurau as this year’s Guy Fawkes season starts.
A long-standing tradition in New Zealand, fireworks are enjoyed by many, 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.
Fireworks are sold for four days leading up to and including Guy Fawkes (2 to 5 November 2026). You must be 18 years old and have a valid ID to purchase them.
Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of Auckland Council’s Regulatory and Safety Committee, urges Aucklanders to be responsible and considerate when using fireworks.
“You may look forward to Guy Fawkes night and have fun letting off fireworks,” says Cr Bartley. “However, many Aucklanders choose not to participate and don’t enjoy Guy Fawkes season, and we ask Aucklanders to be mindful of this, and to be aware that those who live close to you, as well as their pets, can find the noise and lights of fireworks stressful.
“However, many Aucklanders choose not to participate and don’t enjoy Guy Fawkes season, and we ask Aucklanders to be mindful of this, and to be aware that those who live close to you, as well as their pets, can find the noise and lights of fireworks stressful.
“Auckland Council has long held the view that central Government should ban the private sale of fireworks and we have taken opportunities in the past to present this view. We continue to hold this view in 2026.”
Forecasts indicate El Niño conditions are expected to bring stronger and more frequent westerly winds, reduced rainfall and drier conditions across northern New Zealand during spring and early summer. These conditions can increase the risk of fires starting and spreading quickly, making fire prevention particularly important during the Guy Fawkes period.
Julie Pickering, Head of Area Operations, Parks and Community Facilities at Auckland Council, says Aucklanders should consider where they let off fireworks. “I hope those participating in Guy Fawkes and letting off fireworks have a safe and enjoyable time. Please be aware that using fireworks in parks and on beaches across Auckland is not allowed.”
Enjoying fireworks safely and responsibly
• Fireworks can only be set off on private property.
• It is illegal to light fireworks on council-controlled land, such as 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).
◦ Visit Fire and Emergency’s website checkitsalright.nz for information on permits, fire safety and preventing wildfires.
• 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 Checkitsalright.nz website
Maunga
The Tūpuna Maunga Authority will close public access to all 14 maunga across Tāmaki Makaurau each night from 6.30pm to 7am, from Monday 2 November 2026 to Thursday 5 November 2026, to protect these taonga from fires.
Muriwai beach access
Vehicle access to and from Te Oneone Rangatira / Muriwai Beach via Coast Road will close from Monday 2 November 2026 and re-open on Monday 9 November 2026, to mitigate fire risk in the area.
Looking ahead, vehicle access will close to Muriwai beach from 30 December to 13 January. This closure is to enable safe access to the beach during a high period of visitation.
Don’t forget pets during Guy Fawkes
Elly Waitoa, Head of Animal Management at Auckland Council urges Aucklanders to be extra aware of their pets this Guy Fawkes season, especially on the night itself.
“Guy Fawkes can be a frightening time for pets, particularly dogs, which can become distressed by the loud bangs and bright flashes.
“We recommend keeping pets indoors once fireworks start, closing windows and curtains, and creating a quiet, comfortable space where they can feel secure.
“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.”
Read this and more on OurAuckland.
Photo: Auckland Council
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