“New Year’s Eve and the summer months are not the time to be setting off fireworks - particularly with the approaching El Niño weather conditions that are forecast to bring hotter, drier, and windier conditions in many parts of Aotearoa New Zealand,” Nacey said.
“If you want to bring in the New Year with a bang, we recommend attending public fireworks displays where possible.”
People can check for current bans, the fire season and danger levels on the Checkitsalright website.
A New Zealand Police spokesperson said people celebrating needed to look after their mates and make sure everyone got home safely.
“We all have a responsibility to ensure our friends and loved ones are safe this summer, so keep an eye out and report any concerns you have.”
There would be a strong Police presence across the country on December 31.
“Last year, in addition to frontline staff being busy, the Police communications centre experienced high demand,” the spokesperson said.
They said it was important to show patience, respect and kindness to those trying to help.
During the New Year period there was often a peak in traffic, so patience was also advised on the road - “keeping calm, driving sober and pulling over if you feel tired”.
“If people feel unsafe or have concerns about dangerous, illegal or suspicious behaviour, call 111.”
