Cheers to that: ACT celebrates freeing hospo from Easter red tape

ACT is celebrating the passage of a law change that will allow pubs and bars to operate normally over Easter and ANZAC Day, following an amendment from ACT MP and hospitality spokesperson Cameron Luxton.

“New Zealand’s hospitality sector has been tied up in knots for years by outdated trading rules that simply don’t reflect how people live today,” says Mr Luxton.

“From this weekend, no more forced 12am closures, no more confusion about what counts as a ‘substantial meal’, and no more telling customers they have to go home just as things are getting started.

“I’ve heard from bar owners up and down the country who were dreading having to turn people away early over Easter and ANZAC Day, especially with major events like Christchurch’s new stadium opening bringing people together.

“This change brings some much-needed common sense back into the law. If a venue is licensed and operating responsibly, it should be able to decide its own hours.

“Hospitality businesses have had a tough few years with rising costs, staff shortages, and compliance burdens. The last thing they need is archaic rules making it harder to serve customers and turn a profit.

“More flexibility means more customers, more sales, and more vibrant communities. It’s good for business and good for the people who just want to enjoy a night out with friends and family.

“This is exactly what ACT is focused on – cutting dumb rules that get in the way of people earning a living and enjoying their lives.”

Editor's note:

The changes will take effect the day following Royal Assent, which will occur tomorrow – meaning this Easter weekend is covered by the changes.

Kieran McAnulty's member's bill, as originally drafted, would have allowed businesses to sell alcohol under their normal licence conditions every day of the year – but only if their principal business is selling food (i.e. restaurants and cafes).

Many bars and pubs don't fit this requirement and so would be forced to remain closed under separate Shop Trading Hours Act restrictions relating to alcohol. So, Cameron Luxton's amendment overrides the Shop Trading Hours Act restrictions in this situation.