Guy Fawkes and Bonfire Night remain popular traditions in New Zealand. For many people, they bring together a sense of celebration, community, nostalgia, and that simple fascination with fire and fireworks. A well-planned bonfire can create a memorable evening outdoors with friends and whānau. But if it’s done poorly, it can quickly become a nuisance for neighbours, harmful to pets and wildlife, and even a serious fire or health risk.

One of the biggest concerns around Bonfire Night today is smoke pollution and unsafe burning practices. In the past, some people treated bonfires as a way to get rid of unwanted rubbish - burning everything from treated timber and old furniture to tyres, plastics, and damp garden waste. Unfortunately, these materials release toxic smoke and pollutants that can affect both human health and the environment.

In New Zealand, local councils and Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) have strict rules around outdoor fires, especially during dry seasons or in urban areas. Before lighting any bonfire, it’s important to check whether there are fire restrictions or total fire bans in your area.

As a general rule, only dry, untreated, natural materials should be burned. Suitable materials include:

• dry, untreated wood
• small branches and leaves
• untreated garden trimmings
• small amounts of paper or cardboard used to start the fire

Materials that should never be burned include:

• painted, stained, or treated timber
• old furniture or mattresses
• plastics or polystyrene
• tyres and rubber
• aerosol cans
• paint, oil, or chemicals
• metal, glass, or household rubbish
• wet or green garden waste

Burning these materials can produce dangerous fumes, heavy smoke, and airborne toxins. Smoke pollution can trigger asthma and breathing issues, particularly for children, older people, and anyone with respiratory conditions. Excessive smoke can also lead to complaints or fines from local councils.

Even paper and cardboard should only be used sparingly. Lightweight ash and embers can easily travel in the wind and create fire risks for nearby homes, fences, dry grass, or neighbouring properties.

For a cleaner and safer fire, use dry seasoned or kiln-dried wood and keep the bonfire to a sensible size. An enclosed fire pit or brazier is often a better option than a large open burn, especially in suburban areas where smoke can linger.

It’s also worth checking the bonfire carefully before lighting it, as hedgehogs, cats, and other small animals sometimes shelter inside wood piles.

Most importantly, be considerate of your neighbours, pets, and the wider community. Let nearby households know in advance if you’re planning a bonfire, keep noise to reasonable hours, and always have water or an extinguisher nearby in case conditions change.

Have fun, stay safe, keep the good vibes burning and enjoy the evening responsibly.