Far North Easter trading now legal

Until now Paihia was the only town in the Far North where businesses could legally open on Easter Sunday. Photo / Peter de Graaf

Businesses will be able to open across the Far North on Easter Sunday this year for the first time without fear of prosecution.

Last week the Far North District Council voted to open up Easter Sunday trading across the district. Previously only Paihia businesses were allowed to open, because of its popularity with tourists, those elsewhere risking a $1000 fine.

The change comes with a strict proviso, however, that employees cannot be forced to work on Easter Sunday, or suffer any kind of disadvantage if they refuse.

The new trading rule was passed unanimously despite reservations from some councillors.

Deputy Mayor Tania McInnes said the new rule took a one-size-fits-all approach across the Far North and did not allow for specific areas that might oppose Easter Sunday trading.

She also worried about young employees who might feel they couldn't say no if asked to work on that day.

She also noted the 24 submissions against allowing Easter trading edged the 21 in favour.

Mayor John Carter said it had always seemed "nuts" that Paihia shops could open on Easter Sunday, but those across the water, in equally touristy Russell, could not.

Easter Sunday trading used to be decided at a central government level but responsibility for the issue was delegated to district councils last year.

The Far North District Council was one of the first councils to complete consulting and make a decision.