Fireworks have gone on sale for a short period ahead of Guy Fawkes Night tonight.
Shopper Howard Scott had gone for a "big pack [of fireworks] for older kids" in South Dunedin on Monday.
He had two young children and was looking forward to setting the fireworks off with them.
"I just think it's a nice thing for them to do if you're careful."
He reflected on the history of the celebration, which commemorated the arrest on November 5, 1605, of Guy Fawkes, who was part of a group of English Catholics that attempted to assassinate the Protestant King James I and blow up the House of Lords in what became known as the "Gunpowder Plot".
"It's actually a celebration of democracy ... Guy Fawkes wanted to destroy democracy, but he didn't succeed.
"When you look at the world today, democracy is under a lot of threats," Mr Scott said.
"I've spent over 30 years overseas and I've lived and worked in totalitarian states ... military juntas, so I actually know what they're like — I like New Zealand."
The sale of fireworks is restricted to those over 18 and sales are allowed for four days annually — this year from Sunday until today.
Harabi Fireworks retailer Scotty Godsall had been operating out of a shipping container on Anderson Bay Rd since Sunday morning and said business had been steady.
"I make quite a few recommendations to suit different budgets ... if they're looking for an evening for kids or if it's an evening for big kids."
He provided information at point-of-sale about the duty of care required when setting off fireworks.
People were also buying fireworks for year-round use at events including 21st birthdays, weddings and cultural celebrations such as Diwali.
