Shops Open On ANZAC Morning Could Face Backlash

Shops Open On ANZAC Morning Could Face Public Backlash

An Auckland business community that has long advocated for Easter trading laws to be sorted out says that shops that open before 1pm tomorrow run the risk of a public backlash.

“Shops that break the law and open tomorrow morning could be fined by the Department of Labour, but worse they could be labelled disrespectful and unpatriotic. We’re telling shops to keep their doors shut. Trying to make a buck on Anzac Day morning would be seen as bad taste,” says Cameron Brewer, chief executive of the Newmarket Business Association.

Mr Brewer says shops that can legally trade on ANZAC Day morning include dairies and service stations, as well as cafes that serve ready-to-eat food. The likes of garden centres, hardware stores or music shops are not allowed to legally trade before 1pm. If they do open they could be fined $1,000. Farmers markets and market stalls can open in the morning if they are part of a show or exhibition, although confusion reigns. Farmers' Market New Zealand has recommended to its members that they respect the day and not open before 1pm.

“It’s a bit more confusing this year with Anzac Day falling on a Sunday because it doesn’t feel like a public holiday. With it being a Sunday, and most people not getting an extra day off, some businesses may not realise strict trading restrictions still apply.”

Mr Brewer says the public may also be a little confused about whether surcharges legitimately apply after 1pm.

“Despite trading restrictions only lasting until 1pm, the whole of Sunday is in fact an official public holiday. Hence cafes and restaurants are entitled to add a surcharge for the entire. Under the Holiday’s Act they’ll be paying staff extra for the entire day.”

“We’re telling businesses to tread very carefully tomorrow and if they’re thinking about opening in the morning to seriously reconsider. Anzac Day is so precious, particularly when you consider it’s the 95th anniversary of Gallipoli and the fact that World War Two veterans are becoming fewer and fewer. Time is running out to honour these men. Let’s not offend them,” says Cameron Brewer.

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