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Soak before you dispose to avoid sparking a fire this Guy Fawkes

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PUBLISHED: 28 OCT 2026
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As fireworks season approaches, NPDC is reminding residents to soak used fireworks in water overnight before putting them in the red-lid landfill bin.

Whether you're a sparkler enthusiast or hosting a backyard display, this simple step can help prevent devastating fires and keep people safe.

NPDC Resource Recovery and Sustainability Lead Jenn O'Connell says fireworks safety doesn’t end when the display does.

"Taking the time to soak used fireworks overnight can make a big difference.

"Making sure fireworks are completely wet and only go in the red-lid landfill bin, helps reduce the risk of fires at home, in collection trucks, and at our district’s Material Recovery Facility (MRF).

"It's a simple step that helps keep our community, staff, and facilities safe," says Jenn.

While there were no reported fireworks-related incidents in the district's resource recovery facilities last year, the risks are real and could be catastrophic.

Previous close calls include a wheelie bin found smouldering after fireworks were placed inside before they’d fully cooled, and an undischarged firework that ignited at the MRF. Thankfully, neither incident caused injury or serious damage, but with people working around large volumes of paper and cardboard, the consequences could have been much more serious.

Jenn says, “Thanks to everyone who did their part last year by disposing of their fireworks safely. Let's keep that going by making sure every used firework gets a thorough soak before it goes in the landfill bin.”

 

At a glance

  • Thoroughly soak used fireworks before placing them in your red-lid landfill bin.
  • Never put fireworks in your recycling bin.
  • Fireworks cannot be recycled because they contain hazardous chemicals.
  • Fireworks can only be sold from 2 to 5 November, inclusive. Rules regarding the sale of fireworks are set by central Government.
  • Fireworks and fires, including bonfires, are not permitted on public land, including beaches and reserves, across the New Plymouth district.

Caption: A recycling bin damaged after fireworks were placed in the wrong bin before they had fully cooled. Make sure you soak before you dispose.

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Page last updated: 09:18am Wed 28 October 2026

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