Rotorua hails “best chance yet” for Easter Trading

Hardworking Rotorua businesses stand to benefit from a Government bill seeking to allow local councils to decide opening hours for Easter Sunday, says Mayor Steve Chadwick.

Rotorua MP Todd McClay announced today that Cabinet has agreed to introduce to Parliament a Government bill modelled on his 2009 bill which was defeated by two votes. He said the announcement that this was now Government policy meant the numbers were there to pass it into law.

Mayor Chadwick said Easter trading had been a long time coming for local retailers who would finally have “a level playing field”.

“This is fantastic for Rotorua and shows some real leadership – Easter trading is something that was never going to happen unless it was introduced as a Government bill so I applaud the Government and our MP Todd McClay for putting this right.

“This is the best chance Rotorua businesses will ever get and have ever had to decide for themselves whether they want to open their doors during the Easter period or not,” she said.

“Our local businesses have missed out on a lot of opportunities over the years and those who are entrepreneurs will see this as a chance to make Rotorua a more vibrant place.

“I look forward to working with our local business sector to make this happen for Rotorua.”

The mayor said tourism in Rotorua was booming with strong growth in recent months and visitor numbers, visitor nights, visits to attractions and spend all on the increase.

“Being able to open our businesses during one of the busiest weekends of the year will be a fantastic boost for Rotorua and will improve our visitor experience hugely.”

Deputy Mayor Dave Donaldson, who leads Rotorua Lakes Council’s Sustainable Economic Growth Portfolio, said Easter trading would provide a huge economic boost for Rotorua.

“Our city is full during the Easter holidays and feedback we receive from international visitors is absolute puzzlement that a tourist destination like ours is closed for business over this period.

“We now look forward to everyone in New Zealand having the same opportunities.”

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