Full Breakdown
New Zealand Select Committee Calls for Ban on Public Fireworks Sales
5/7/2026, 10:04:44 PM
Recommendation to End Public Fireworks Sales
A four-member select committee unanimously recommended banning public sales and use of fireworks in New Zealand. The report was sent to Environment Minister Nicola Grigg, who confirmed receipt and said a formal Cabinet process will follow. Members said no change is likely before the election, but hope for consideration in the next term.
Background: Petitions and Animal Welfare
The push for a ban stems from three petitions with 95,000 signatures and evidence that fireworks cause panic in cats, dogs and horses. Over a quarter of horse owners report injuries from fireworks-induced panic. SPCA senior scientific officer Dr Alison Vaughan highlighted the broader welfare impact and said many New Kiwis support ending fireworks.
Key Stakeholders
National MP Fleming, who shifted from opposing to supporting a full ban after reviewing animal-welfare data, is a leading parliamentary voice. Pet supplies retailer Animates, led by manager Nathalie Moolenschot, coordinated the petitions and secured backing from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, the NZ Veterinary Association and Veterinarians for Animal Welfare. The SPCA and its scientific staff are also vocal advocates.
Data
Animates reported over 90,000 human signatures and 75,000 pet paw or hoof prints on the petitions. A recent SPCA survey found a majority of New Zealanders favour ending public fireworks sales and use.
Official Statements
Environment Minister Grigg said the committee’s report will be considered through the normal Cabinet process and that the government will not pre-empt its final decision. MP Fleming warned any legislative action is unlikely before the election, reflecting a cautious stance, but said he hopes the issue will be taken seriously in the next term.
Criticism & Opposition
Opponents note that implementing a ban before the upcoming election would be challenging, and MPs argue legislative action is unlikely until after the vote.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’d love to see it [be] something that’s given serious consideration in the next term of Parliament.” — Fleming, National MP
- “We came to the conclusion the halfway measure is probably not the best one.” — Fleming, National MP
- “Many people over the years have signed petitions and it has felt like Groundhog Day as each year we go through this process. But … being relentless can pay off. So thank you to petitioners, and everyone who signed.” — Dr Alison Vaughan, SPCA senior scientific officer
- “ They were “absolutely thrilled” that “pet parents” and the wider community had been heard, petitioner and Animates’ manager Nathalie Moolenschot told Newstalk ZB.” — Nathalie Moolenschot, Animates manager
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The articles do not specify a date for Cabinet deliberation nor outline the legislative steps required to enforce a ban.
What’s Next
The recommendation will be reviewed by Cabinet, and if approved, legislation could be introduced in the next parliamentary term.
