Fireworks in New Zealand (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: In New Zealand retail fireworks can be bought only from 2 to 5 November each year, and only by people aged 18 or over; sparklers are sold only in packages. Some councils prohibit fireworks in public spaces. Rules on when and where they may be let off, and the age to use them, were not found.

RuleWhat applies
Consumers may buy and use category F2 fireworksConsumer fireworks (category F2)Yes [1]
Minimum age to buyConsumer fireworks (category F2)18 years [1]
Minimum age to possess or let offConsumer fireworks (category F2)⚠ Not yet verified
When they may be sold to the publicConsumer fireworks (category F2)Retail fireworks may be displayed for sale or sold by a retailer only from 2 November to the close of 5 November each year, unless a written approval has been given for sale at other times. Sparklers may be sold only in a retail fireworks package. [1]
When they may be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2)⚠ Not yet verified
Where they may not be let offConsumer fireworks (category F2)The EPA says some councils have rules prohibiting fireworks in public spaces and advises checking with the local council before letting fireworks off in a public place. [2]

Notes

  • Regulation 6 of the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) Regulations 2001: retail fireworks may be sold only from 2 November to the close of 5 November each year, unless the Authority has given written approval for sale at other times, and not to anyone under 18. Sparklers may be sold only inside a retail fireworks package. The EPA consumer page (Internet Archive snapshot of 13 August 2026) gives the same dates and age.
  • The EPA states that regulating fireworks let off at home or in public spaces is not part of its role. No national list of banned areas was read.

Sources

  1. New Zealand Parliamentary Counsel Office: Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) Regulations 2001 (SR 2001/121) (as at 01 December 2017) (Internet Archive snapshot of 27 June 2024) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Environmental Protection Authority: Fireworks, Christmas crackers and party poppers (Internet Archive snapshot of 13 August 2026) (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

Compare all countries →

General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.