Embracing Change: ACT Party’s Exciting Bid to Revitalize Easter Trading Laws

Get ready for real change in New Zealand as the ACT Party unveils a vibrant initiative aimed at breathing new life into the country’s Easter trading regulations.
In a move full of optimism for New Zealand’s trade and commerce, ACT MP Cameron Luxton has resurrected a private member’s bill, previously championed by former ACT MP Chris Baillie, to lift the restrictions on trading during Good Friday and Easter Sunday.
If this bill triumphs in the parliamentary ballot, it could usher in a progressive era for New Zealand’s Easter commerce laws, offering newfound freedom to businesses and a fresh perspective for the nation.
The initial setback of 2022, where the bill was voted down after Labour’s decision to enforce a bloc vote, has not deterred the ACT Party. With unwavering enthusiasm, Luxton and his team believe that this second chance presents an excellent opportunity to reshape the way New Zealanders approach Easter trading. The focus is not just on commerce but also on fostering a more inclusive and dynamic environment for both businesses and workers.
Luxton passionately asserts, “Forcing businesses to close over Easter is a paternalistic relic of an old-fashioned New Zealand that just doesn’t make sense for a diverse modern nation.”
The ACT Party envisions a future where businesses can thrive during holidays, catering to the needs of an increasingly multicultural society.
As someone of Indian origin I know and understand first-hand the positive impact on Kiwis of Indian origin, who, having experienced the benefits of increased trade during festive seasons, are likely to embrace this forward-thinking change.
What sets this bill apart is its comprehensive approach.
While advocating for increased business flexibility, the bill reassures that existing employee protections related to Easter Sunday will not only be retained but extended to cover Good Friday. This commitment to balancing the needs of consumers, employers and employees underscores the ACT Party’s dedication to creating a well-rounded and fair framework.
In 2016 there was an attempt to delegate Easter trading regulations to local councils. These in my view were “half-measure” that only complicated the regulatory landscape. Our proposal seeks to simplify and streamline, doing away with unnecessary regulations that make it difficult for everyone, especially consumers. Easter trading is the perfect starting point for this much-needed overhaul.
are gearing up for a positive and energetic campaign. We are excited about engaging in public discourse leading up to Easter, promising to “raise the roof” in support of a change that aligns with the values of a modern and diverse New Zealand.
The prospect of a more liberalised Easter trading environment is met with enthusiasm, and the ACT Party remains hopeful that this initiative will mark a significant and positive turning point in the nation’s approach to Easter commerce.