Winston Peters Proposes Ban on Fireworks Sales in New Zealand

New Zealand’s political landscape is witnessing a significant shift as Winston Peters, leader of the NZ First party, has announced his intention to introduce a Member’s Bill aimed at banning the sale, manufacture, and importation of fireworks for public use. This proposal, dubbed the Fireworks Prohibition Legislation Bill, is an effort to address ongoing concerns about the dangers and distress caused by fireworks, particularly to animals and emergency services.

As public sentiment has increasingly turned against fireworks, there has been a history of petitions advocating for a ban. In 2012, over 20,000 signatures were collected, followed by a petition with 25,000 signatures in 2015. More recently, a petition in 2020 led to parliamentary discussions, although no legislative action was taken. According to the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), around 300 injury claims related to fireworks are reported each year, underscoring the risks involved.

Peters pointed out the chaos that fireworks create, stating, “We’ve gone for years with all sorts of things happening,” referring to the impact on animals and the strain on emergency services. He recounted witnessing horses injured by fireworks, emphasizing the need for change. The proposed legislation would still allow for public fireworks displays, aiming to balance public enjoyment with safety concerns.

The issue of animal welfare has become a central theme in this discussion. Peters acknowledged that the distress experienced by animals during fireworks displays is a major consideration in his proposal. “You see animals going out of their minds when fireworks go off,” he said, highlighting the unpredictability of where fireworks might land and the subsequent panic they cause in animals.

When asked about potential backlash from the public regarding a ban, Peters expressed confidence that most major retailers have already ceased selling fireworks. He noted that the ongoing use of fireworks during celebrations leads to unnecessary chaos and anxiety for animals, stating, “I cannot see any redeeming features for this matter.” He also stressed that the historical significance of Guy Fawkes in New Zealand does not justify the continuation of fireworks sales.

The reaction from animal welfare advocates has been overwhelmingly positive. Associate Professor Marcelo Rodriguez Ferrere, an expert in animal welfare law, remarked that Peters’ announcement brings hope to many New Zealanders who have long supported a ban. He pointed out that previous petitions have been met with reluctance from politicians, who feared being labeled as “killjoys.”

Rodriguez Ferrere noted, “Winston is being canny,” suggesting that the broad cross-party support for the bill may finally provide the momentum needed to enact change. He argued that the scientific and public welfare arguments against fireworks are compelling, and that allowing their continued use contributes to significant distress for pets and wildlife alike.

Despite the challenges in enforcing a ban, given the widespread and erratic use of fireworks, advocates like Rodriguez Ferrere believe that the proposed legislation is a necessary step. “It beggars belief that this has persisted so long given the public opposition,” he added.

As New Zealand prepares for the potential of this new legislation, the proposed ban on fireworks sales marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about public safety and animal welfare. If the Fireworks Prohibition Legislation Bill is randomly selected for progression, it could represent a long-overdue act of mercy towards animals, emergency responders, and all those who have endured the stress caused by fireworks.

As the political landscape evolves, many are watching closely to see if this initiative will gain the traction it needs to become law.