Florist refuses to sell red roses on Valentine's Day

A Wellington florist is refusing to sell red roses on Valentine's Day, saying people are being ripped off.

Jeanie McCafferty has put up a sign in her Newtown store Next Stop Earth telling customers she does not believe in the commercialisation of the day. She says she will not sell red roses all week, because they are too expensive.

Ms McCafferty is also refusing to do workplace deliveries tomorrow, saying the deadline is too stressful for her staff and couriers.

The florist says she has sold red roses on Valentine's Day in the past, but always felt embarrassed having to charge people so much.

She says florists are not the ones overcharging, as they have to spend six or sevens times as much to get red roses at this time of the year.

- NEWSTALK ZB