Fireworks displays to light up Chch
Guy Fawkes fireworks events are set to light up Canterbury skies this weekend.
Pyrotechnics kicked off last night with the Family Fireworks Display, a family picnic and games event organised by City Church Christchurch on Manchester St in the central city.
The greater Christchurch area will see two major displays tonight, with events at Foster Park in Rolleston and Waihora Park in Motukarara.
Tomorrow, Guy Fawkes night, the New Brighton Pier will host its annual display, this year set to a Star Wars theme.
Private fireworks went on sale to the public on Thursday and will be available until tomorrow.
Yesterday morning, Fire and Emergency South Island spokesman Rewai Grace said there had not yet been any reports of misuse this fireworks season – but it was early days.
Hell Pizza general manager Ben Cumming said fireworks sales were different each year based on what days of the week they could be sold.
‘‘This year we think that because there’s a Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday sales window, Saturday and Sunday will both be really busy days.’’
He said he expected people might buy fireworks for parties tonight then come back for more or buy up for Guy Fawkes Night tomorrow.
A Countdown spokeswoman said there had been a steady stream of customers since fireworks went on sale on Thursday.
‘‘The Northlands community seem to be the most excited about Guy Fawkes . . . packs are flying off the shelves.’’
The most popular were the kidfriendly sparklers followed closely by family packs, she said.
A police spokeswoman asked for people who used fireworks to do so responsibly and be respectful of other people, property and pets.
‘‘Anyone with concerns about people behaving recklessly with fireworks, and endangering people or property, is asked to call police.’’
On its website, SPCA Canterbury reminds all pet owners to ‘‘take extra care of their furry companions during this terrifying season’’.
The organisation’s advice includes to never let fireworks off close to animals and keep your pets indoors with curtains and exterior doors and windows closed and with music playing or the television on in an effort to muffle the sounds.
Livestock owners were advised to move their animals away from areas where firework parties are likely to take place and check that paddocks were well fenced and secure before the fireworks start.