Hell Pizza ends fireworks sales: ‘The tide has turned’

Pizza chain Hell Pizza has canned its fireworks sales after customers raised concerns for the welfare of animals. Hell general manager Ben Cumming, pictured, said many of its customers told the company they didn’t agree with it selling fireworks. ‘‘A number of issues have been raised, from the safety of animals to antisocial behaviour. In light of these legitimate concerns, we feel the right thing to do is to stop selling fireworks. We started selling fireworks because it was fun and, from the outset, we have taken great care to ensure our firework sets provide safe and enjoyable entertainment for friends and family. The tide has turned and we can’t ignore that.’’ Hell began selling fireworks five years ago. Fire and Emergency New Zealand issues warnings every year about fireworks-related injuries and damage to property.