As the lone voice on the Rotorua District Council to speak out against Easter trading, councillor Janet Wepa says she has never supported the proposal.
Mrs Wepa said there were a number of reasons why she didn't support the move.
"One being we only have three and a half public holidays a year where the shops aren't open at all.
"It's about people knowing it's a total holiday with no family members being pressured into work.
"Then there are my Christian beliefs behind this as well, because it's a time to celebrate the true meaning of Easter."
Mrs Wepa said Easter was also a time for family occasions like reunions and weddings.
"Those in the food and service industries are often pressured into work and don't really get a choice," she said.
"While I understand the other point of view, wanting to have parity with places like Taupo and Queenstown, I would like the Government to ban opening shops across the whole country.
"Visitors would have to accept that it is a national holiday.
"I think this also relates to our values.
"We have become obsessed about working and shopping and we just get more over-worked and stressed.
"We are such a consumer-orientated society it would be nice to take some time out and have a rest now and then."