On Tuesday night, independent councillor Philip Penfold tabled a question on notice about the plans, asking what other options were available if a large-scale event was not possible due to the coronavirus pandemic.

"Such an exhibition from a closed off Maitland Showground, for example, could be considered, allowing thousands of families to enjoy from home," his question read.

In 2018 and 2019, organisers were forced to cancel the city's New Year's Eve firework due to severe weather conditions. A response from vibrant city executive manager Rachel MacLucas said council officers are "currently exploring a number of alternate options".

The response said options being explored include "multiple scaled and/or dispersed activities on New Year's Eve as well as activities and programs that could be delivered early in 2021 to celebrate the start of a new year".

"Maitland's traditional New Year's Eve celebrations are generally smaller in scale than some of our neighbouring councils, which means we still have a small window to monitor any change in the government's health advice before finalising our approach for this year.

"Any proposed changes in the approach this year would be made in consultation with our major sponsor and other key stakeholders and would be reported to council for approval in October.

"A fireworks display from a closed location, like the showground as suggested, may be possible, however staff would need to consider the social gathering implications of such, as it may encourage residents from suburbs who have no or limited view of the display along with visitors from outside the local government area to gather in large numbers in Maitland Park and locations near the showground."

Other events cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic include Bitter and Twisted Boutique Beer Festival and Steamfest.