News

Easter Trading: A Unified Voice for Western Bay Businesses

3 September 2024

Tauranga Business Chamber, in collaboration with other key business representative organisations, is proud to present a unified stance on the Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s consultation on its Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy – seeking public feedback until 6 September 2024.

The Western Bay of Plenty thrives on a bustling business community that caters to both locals and visitors alike.Our collective voice echoes the sentiments of a region that values consistency, opportunity, and economic vitality.

Essentially, it’s about having a choice: customers have a choice to shop; businesses have a choice to open; employees have a choice to work and earn income.

Waihi Beach shops. Source: 1964.co.nz/waihi-beach/

Consistency Across the Bay

One of the cornerstones of our support for the current Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy is the consistency it brings across the wider Bay of Plenty. Neighbouring councils have embraced similar policies, creating a seamless experience for visitors and residents.

This alignment sends a powerful message: the Bay of Plenty is open for business, ready to welcome everyone with open arms, even on Easter Sunday.

Tauranga City Council’s approval of this approach in 2022 set a precedent that we believe should be maintained. Consistency is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a strategic move that enhances the region’s appeal as a unified, business-friendly destination.

Levelling the Playing Field

In today’s digital age, online businesses operate around the clock, unrestricted by traditional trading hours. The current policy ensures that our beloved brick-and-mortar stores are not left at a disadvantage. By allowing physical shops to open on Easter Sunday, we create a level playing field where all businesses, regardless of their format, have the opportunity to thrive.

This policy empowers employers to make decisions that best suit their business needs. Whether they choose to open their doors or not, the choice remains theirs. This flexibility is crucial in a dynamic business environment where adaptability can make all the difference.

Empowering and Suppporting Employees

At the heart of every successful business are the dedicated employees who drive its operations. The current policy not only benefits businesses but also provides employees with the chance to earn additional income on a statutory holiday. This opportunity is particularly valuable in a time when the cost of living continues to rise.

Moreover, the policy aligns with recent legislative changes that support employee well-being. Since the policy’s last review in 2017, additional entitlements such as the Matariki public holiday and extra sick leave have been introduced. These changes ensure that employees are better supported, making the option to work on Easter Sunday a more attractive proposition.

Economic Vitality and Community Spirit

The ability to trade on Easter Sunday contributes significantly to the economic vitality of our region. It allows businesses to capitalise on the influx of visitors during the holiday period, boosting sales and fostering a lively community atmosphere. This is particularly important for sectors such as hospitality and retail, which rely heavily on peak trading times.

Furthermore, the policy supports the broader community by ensuring that essential services remain accessible. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy the convenience of shopping and dining, enhancing their overall experience in the Bay of Plenty.

A Unified Call to Action

As representatives of the business community, we stand united in our support for the continuation of the current Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy. Our collective feedback underscores the importance of maintaining a consistent, fair, and economically beneficial approach to trading regulations.

We urge the Western Bay of Plenty District Council to consider the positive impact this policy has on our region. By allowing shops to open on Easter Sunday, we not only support local businesses but also contribute to the overall prosperity and vibrancy of the Bay of Plenty.

Government needs to change its law

On a personal note, I appreciate that Western Bay of Plenty District Council is legally required to review their policies and bylaws every 5-10 years. The Government needs to change its law that requires councils to each develop and maintain local policies on Easter Sunday trading. This is on the back of the Prime Minister’s speech at the Local Government conference that asked local councils to focus on their core services.

I welcome the upcoming debate on local Act Party MP Cameron Luxton’s member’s bill for Government to Simplify Easter Trading rules and standardise rules across New Zealand.

This blog was written by Matt Cowley., CEO of Tauranga Business Chamber.

To see the joint submission – click on this link..

Signatories to the Joint Submission: