The Ōpōtiki District Council is exploring the possibility of adopting a new Easter Sunday Trading Policy, which would give individual businesses the option to decide whether to operate on Easter Sunday.
In 2017, the district council implemented a similar policy. However, as it was the first time such a policy had been introduced in the area, it underwent a review after five years. Following this review, the policy was revoked, requiring all stores to comply with the Shop Trading Hours Act, which mandates that shops close on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Anzac Day (until 1 pm), and Christmas Day.
"The draft policy we're considering is very similar to the one in place from 2017 to 2023, and that policy seemed to work well," said Ōpōtiki District Council's Strategy and Development Group Manager, Antoinette Campbell. "Our neighbors, along with other councils in the Bay of Plenty, either already have a similar policy or are working on implementing one for this Easter."
Campbell also noted that the council has received significant feedback regarding the lapse of the previous policy, with many local businesses expressing frustration and seeking the opportunity for more flexibility.
To gather community input, the council is now opening the proposal for public discussion through its online platforms. Campbell sees this as a valuable opportunity to engage with the community and ensure that any proposed changes align with Ōpōtiki's needs.