By Robyn Bristow
Hurunui businesses can open their doors on Easter Sunday.
The Hurunui District Council has given the nod today to an Easter Sunday Shop Trading Policy, effective immediately.
It received a total of 25 submissions to a draft policy – 19 in support and six submitters against.
Mayor Winton Dalley and several councillors expressed sadness commercialism had “invaded” one of the few remaining days where trading is not allowed, but after carefully considering the submissions, they accepted the commercial reality of Easter Sunday trading.
Cr Vince Daly voted against the policy saying it was the “thin edge of the wedge” that commercialism and the almighty dollar ruled.
Cr Nicky Anderson said the policy gives everyone a choice whether to open their doors or, while Mr Dalley said he was not comfortable about the protection afforded to employees who may feel pressured into working.
“While the law is there to protect them, in reality it may not,” he said.
