Fireworks
The New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) supports a ban on the public sale of fireworks.
Fireworks can cause fear, stress and anxiety in pets, livestock, zoo animals and wildlife. They can also cause physical injuries if an animal is too close when the fireworks are lit, or if they get spooked and try to run away.
Although the public sale of fireworks in New Zealand is restricted to three days each year (2–5 November), people can let them off on any day of the year. Additionally, many councils choose to hold public fireworks displays to celebrate events and holidays such as Guy Fawkes, New Year's Eve/Day, Diwali and even Matariki.
Read our position statement
To protect animals from direct and indirect harm caused by fireworks, the sale of fireworks to the public should be banned, and licensing arrangements should be instituted for individuals or organisations to responsibly detonate fireworks in public displays approved by the relevant territorial authority.
How you can get involved
For members of the public
- Sign the Pawprint Petition by Animates.
- If you or your animal has been harmed by fireworks, document it via this fireworks impact data survey.
- Follow the NZVA on social media and share our posts about fireworks.
- Learn how to keep animals safe and calm while fireworks are being let off.
For veterinary professionals
- Display a poster in your waiting room inviting clients to participate in a survey aimed at documenting fireworks-related harm to people, animals, property and the environment.
- Familiarise yourself with the NZVA's position on fireworks sale and use.
- Follow the NZVA on social media and share our posts about fireworks
- Encourage clients to plan ahead for popular events and holidays such as Guy Fawkes, New Year's Eve/Day, Diwali and Matariki.
- Educate clients about the dangers of fireworks and how they can keep keep animals safe and calm.
- Encourage companion animal owners to microchip and register pets in case they go missing.
