There are many points to consider when planning for pyrotechnics at your event. Fireworks displays must meet strict requirements set out by WorkSafe New Zealand (Worksafe) and must be conducted by an approved pyrotechnician. Permits and permissions from various stakeholders must also be obtained from:
- building and landowner permission
- a compliance certification from NZ Aviation Authority
- approval from Fire and Emergency New Zealand (New window)
- permits, if required, from KiwiRail and NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) for events on or near these areas.
A traffic management plan, from an authorised traffic management company must also be submitted to the Dunedin City Council (DCC) to implement the exclusion zone and stop traffic during the display, if required.
Further information on the regulations for fireworks can be found on the WorkSafe website (New window), and we advise you discuss pyrotechnics displays with our Events team as soon as possible.
Projections and laser shows
Lighting and projection events are an effective way to showcase your event and our city buildings. If you are planning a lighting or projection event you need to consider several steps and obtain the necessary consents before you start. Requirements vary for different building types and locations, so it's important to give yourself plenty of time.
You will require permission from a number of people and affected parties. It is useful to prepare an outline of your proposed event you can provide to people. Include details such as:
- what part of the building you'd like to project on to
- proposed concept/imagery
- whether you require access to the building
- the number of nights you plan on running the projection
- location of projector and structures you intend on using for projection.
Building and/or landowners' permission
Approach the building owner (and or/landowner if separate) for permission. if it's a DCC building you're wanting to project on to you will need to provide an outline of your proposed event. Talk with our Events team first.
NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) permission
Depending on the location of the building, you may need permission from NZTA. To ensure driver distraction is minimised, NZTA has very strict regulations about colours that can be used in projections and the speed at which lights can change near a state highway. NZTA will provide you with regulations about the colours, sequences of images and the speed of moving images that can be used. You can liaise directly with NZTA for more information and guidelines (New window).
DCC Transport team
If your projection event is not near a state highway, you will need DCC Transport team sign off to ensure vehicle and pedestrian safety.
Affected parties
You will need to undertake an affected parties consent process for the projection event. This means contacting every adjacent building to notify them. You will also be required to address any concerns they might have. If you are projecting on to a building that normally has tenants in it during the day, you may wish to request that they turn out all lights at night to ensure you achieve the best outcome for your event.
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
If you intend to project on to a heritage building you will need to get permission from Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Email infodeepsouth@heritage.org.nz
Resource consent
Your projection/lighting event is likely to require resource consent.
- Contact the DCC Planning team for advice and guidance.
- You will need to include details about the above information when you apply for resource consent.
Building consent
Depending on the structure you intend to use for housing your projector you may require a building consent.
- Please contact the DCC Building Consents team for advice and guidance.
Please note: much of the (compliance) paperwork needs to be completed well in advance of the event and can take several weeks to process.
Other considerations:
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Security
- If your projection event is to run over a number of nights, you may need security to protect the equipment and site. There are a number of local providers who are able to help with this.
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Contractors
- There are a number of Dunedin providers who are able to help with projections events. Please ensure, from a health and safety perspective, that they are able to demonstrate compliance with NZTA requirements in their health and safety planning.
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Pack-in and pack-out
- If you are looking at running a projection event on a DCC park or reserve, you will need to book the space. Please discuss with our Events team.