Easter trading 'bad for families'

Janet Wepa

As the lone voice on the Rotorua District Council to speak out against Easter trading, councillor Janet Wepa says she has never supported the proposal.

Mrs Wepa said there were a number of reasons why she didn't support the move.

"One being we only have three and a half public holidays a year where the shops aren't open at all.

"It's about people knowing it's a total holiday with no family members being pressured into work.

"Then there are my Christian beliefs behind this as well, because it's a time to celebrate the true meaning of Easter."

Mrs Wepa said Easter was also a time for family occasions like reunions and weddings.

"Those in the food and service industries are often pressured into work and don't really get a choice," she said.

"While I understand the other point of view, wanting to have parity with places like Taupo and Queenstown, I would like the Government to ban opening shops across the whole country.

"Visitors would have to accept that it is a national holiday.

"I think this also relates to our values.

"We have become obsessed about working and shopping and we just get more over-worked and stressed.

"We are such a consumer-orientated society it would be nice to take some time out and have a rest now and then."