Two men were taken into custody in Dunedin’s student quarter last night after fireworks-related disorder, including officers nearly being hit by fireworks intentionally shot in their direction.
Emergency services were called to Castle St following reports of around 50 people shooting fireworks at each other at around 9.50pm.
Senior Sergeant Anthony Bond said multiple calls were received and officers verbally warned everyone involved upon arrival.
“A 20-year-old man was arrested for being disorderly and was released with a verbal warning, but as police were returning to the patrol vehicle, a group of males intentionally shot fireworks in their direction, causing a near miss.”
Bond said another 20-year-old was held in custody overnight “as a result of that stupidity” and was released today with a warning.
“Fireworks are explosives and can cause serious injuries, hence why the timeframe for selling them continues to be shorter and shorter each year,” he said.
“Shooting fireworks at people or property is a dumb decision and could have lifelong consequences.”
Police say they wanted people to enjoy themselves safely but would take action when public safety was at risk.
There are an estimated 200 callouts to fireworks-related incidents each year. (Source: 1News)
Fire and Emergency NZ has urged caution ahead of Guy Fawkes celebrations this year, with crews responding to 166 fireworks-related callouts last year.
“Our job is to protect people, property and the environment from fire, and fireworks really do clash with that goal,” said Adrian Nacey, FENZ’s national manager for community readiness and recovery.
“We’re not calling for an outright ban, but we would support further limits on retail sales to the general public.”
Nacey said recent weather conditions, particularly wind, have increased the risk of fire spread.
“It’s what turns a fun night into a dangerous situation,” he said.
He urged people to check local fire danger levels at checkitsalright.nz, avoid using fireworks in public spaces, and take basic safety precautions like keeping water nearby and soaking used fireworks before disposal.
“If you’re going to use fireworks, do it responsibly,” Nacey said. “Better yet, go to a public display and leave it to the professionals.”
