The Hastings District Council will decide whether to align itself with Napier and take the next steps to introduce an Easter Sunday trading policy at its full council meeting tomorrow.
The council consulted the community on the idea earlier this year after receiving a request from Foodstuffs North Island Ltd, and received 297 submissions - 200 opposed to such a policy and 97 in favour.
In a paper to the council, environmental planner (policy) Junior Tuakana said 96 submitters did not give a reason for their submission, but of those who did the opposition mainly stemmed from concerns that it would reduce already limited opportunities for families to spend time together.
Read more: Easter Sunday trading back on Hastings District Council agenda
Other reasons for keeping the status quo ranged from the desire for the Christian observance of Easter to continue to be recognised, for retail workers to have a holiday, and the belief that there were already ample shopping days available.