The fireworks show, produced by Christchurch-based Fireworks International, will feature gerandolas (Spanish silver missiles), fan chases and comet tails, mine and comet chase sequences, hundreds of star shells and even something called a Mei Tai Grand Meeting.

This year’s event will be even more expansive, using the sea, sky and pier length as the canvas for the pyrotechnics. Christchurch City Council has coordinated this annual event for sponsors Meridian Energy for seven years.

“Creatively, the Meridian Energy Fireworks Extravaganza is a step out from the expected and the toe-tapping soundtrack will set a blinding pace,” says the Council’s organiser of this event, Islay McLeod.