Opinion: Easter trading looks a done deal

Will Rotorua shops be open for business on Easter Sunday next year? PHOTO/FILE

When even church leaders and the workers' union are not opposing calls to allow trading on Easter Sunday, it does seem like it could be a done deal.

Mayor Steve Chadwick and many councillors have been vocal in their calls to allow Rotorua business owners the option of opening on a day the city is always buzzing with visitors looking for somewhere to spend their money.

The Rotorua MP, the Chamber of Commerce and many business owners are in the same camp.

In its report on the issue the council says it consulted with religious leaders in the city who acknowledged the benefits to the city of shops being allowed to open.

Those sentiments are echoed by Reverend Alex Czerwonka today, who supports the move as long as workers' rights are protected.

With the council going out to public consultation this month with a view to having the change (if it's approved) signed off in February so shops can open at Easter 2017, is the outcome a foregone conclusion?

The signs do seem to point that way. A 2014 Colmar Brunton survey found 79 per cent support for Easter trading in the city and it certainly has high-level support.

While personally I am in favour of Rotorua being open for business on Easter Sunday - with all the economic benefits that brings the city - I do have sympathy for retail staff many of whom, let's be realistic, may not be in a position to refuse to work.

Thus missing out on days with their families or the chance to observe their religious beliefs.

if I was a betting woman, my money would be firmly on Rotorua being open for business come April 16, 2017.

But I hope those with a strong view on the issue are not put off by the seemingly strong support for the change and make their voice heard during the consultation.

If you want to speak up, it's now or never.