Government looks at longer daylight saving

An extension to daylight saving is under investigation after a Government change of mind.

A spokesman for Internal Affairs Minister Rick Barker said yesterday that there have been "more people than usual" this year arguing an extension would be a good idea.

"The work ... does not mean that there will be a change. The best thing we can do is inform ourselves of the impacts."

Daylight saving starts on October 1 and ends on March 18 next year.

The study will look at the impacts on people's lives as well as different sectors of the economy, and include a focus on energy consumption, road safety and the benefits of more outdoor recreation time in the evening.

The Government would need to see "considerable" public support for a change before it made one, the spokesman added.

Nelson City councillor Mark Holmes, who has been spearheading a campaign to extend the period of daylight saving time by three weeks, yesterday described the Government's investigation as "absolutely wonderful news". Mr Holmes said he had been in contact with United Future leader Peter Dunne "a few times" over the past month and the pair were considering launching a nationwide petition to "try to get Rick Barker moving".

Mr Dunne broke the news of the Government's decision to investigate an extension. His office issued a statement saying Mr Dunne was "delighted" about the investigation.

The "compelling argument" for extending daylight saving time included a likely reduction in energy usage due to a decrease in the use of lights and televisions, as well as a "positive psychological effect", Mr Dunne said.