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Pyrotechnics

  • Spectrum for 6 November 2011

    Anthony Lealand has drawn on the experience of guys by the bonfire with a handful of sparklers, to fully orchestrated whizz-bang events, to create his fireworks company which is now a world leader in… Read more Audio

Pyrotechnics Shanghai display Nov small

Shanghai display

Steve Krenek and Anthony Lealand first became friends at Canterbury University in the mid-1970s. They combined science and theatre and a small boys’ love of fireworks to create wild pyrotechnic parties which shocked the authorities.

Pyrotechnics Anthony Lealand rock blasting in the Port Hills Nov small

Anthony Lealand rock blasting in the Port Hills above Lyttleton

These days Steve, who has also worked on engineering conundrums for NASA, applies his considerable skills to New Zealand’s Wool industry. Anthony stayed with fireworks and runs his business from a modest warehouse in one of the older industrial areas of Christchurch.

Pyrotechnics Steve Krenek Nov small

Steve Krenek

Currently, his state-of-the-art explosives, imported from Africa, are helping to minimize the dangers from rocky areas on the Port Hills made unstable by earthquakes. Anthony’s warehouse mostly stood up during the earthquakes – with a bit of help from neighbours – and it’s been business as usual.

Albany fireworks

Albany fireworks