Fairground and amusement devices, including Land borne inflatables (bouncy castles, inflatable slides etc.) can present significant health and safety risks to their users if installed and used incorrectly.

Mechanical rides

You must apply for a Permit to Operate for all amusement devices by completing the form below. Each application must be accompanied by a certificate of registration, issued by WorkSafe NZ. You will also need to book an inspection with a Building Control Officer.

Application for a permit to operate an amusement device - (PDF, 290 KB)

For more information, contact:

Geoff Winship
Senior Building Control Officer
geoff.winship@whakatane.govt.nz
07 306 0500

Land borne inflatables (e.g. Bouncy Castles)

Land-borne inflatable devices, e.g. Bouncy Castles, are not currently defined as an Amusement Device by Worksafe NZ and therefore are not required to be registered. However, by design and intent of their use, they provide amusement for members of the public. WorkSafe outlines the duties of those operating these devices in the Land-borne Inflatable Device Operating Requirements Bulletin on their website, and Council requires event managers to include details of use in their event risk management plan.

Pyrotechnic displays (i.e. fireworks)

If you are planning on holding an outdoor pyrotechnic display, you need to apply to Worksafe NZ for an Outdoor Pyrotechnic Display Compliance Certificate. You also need our approval as the landowner.

For more information and applicable forms, head to the Worksafe NZ and Fire & Emergency NZ websites:

• Worksafe NZ - Outdoor pyrotechnics display compliance certificates
• Fire & Emergency NZ - Fireworks and pyrotechnic displays

Once approved, we will require a copy of the approved Pyrotechnic Test Certificate.

For more information, contact:

Reserves & Bookings Administrator
Make an online enquiry »
openplacesadmin@whakatane.govt.nz
07 306 0500