 There is a display of Fireworks on the New Brighton Pier, beginning at sunset about 9.00pm, as well as a lights show off the pier and music.For several decades, New Brighton had the distinction of being the only place in Christchurch where general retail shops were permitted to open on Saturdays (remaining closed on Mondays), and the business district thrived as a result.With the introduction of nationwide Saturday trading in 1980, and then seven-day trading in 1990, retail activity declined significantly.