As it happened: Election campaign, 9 October
New Zealand political parties are campaigning ahead of the upcoming election, with debates focusing on a proposed fireworks ban and coalition strategies. NZ First is pushing for a ban on private fireworks, while other major parties remain skeptical.
Why it matters
The election cycle highlights the tension between public safety initiatives and individual freedom, which remains a central theme in New Zealand's political discourse.
Party leaders traded barbs and weighed in on fresh calls for a fireworks ban as the second week of the election campaign neared its end on Friday.
On Friday morning, NZ First launched a fresh push for a ban on backyard fireworks - despite the leaders of National and Labour shooting the idea down in Tuesday's debate.
The party wants to ban the public sale and private use of fireworks, blaming them for frightening animals, starting fires and causing havoc for emergency services.
In a statement, a spokesperson said the legislation was already written and ready to be introduced to Parliament within the first 100 days of the next government.
Leader Winston Peters said fireworks could lead to animals being seriously injured.
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