If a handful of submissions and a couple of hundred survey results are to be believed, Central Otago locals want Easter trading policy amended.
Submissions closed last week on the Central Otago District Council’s draft policy allowing businesses to open on Easter Sunday. Five supported and two opposed the policy.
Submitter Shona Rae, who co-owns Cromwell Mini Golf, said the town was "bursting at the seams" over Easter and those people needed to have access to shops and activities.
"It is also the last weekend before winter sets in and it can be a long, lean winter for some businesses."
Submitter Gaye Gardner said Easter trading should not be allowed except for family-run businesses.
"Everyone should have the opportunity to attend a church service, but also there are so few days when the family can enjoy a day together."
Last month the council received 295 replies to an online survey on the policy, about 70% of which approved of the change. Legislation passed this year lets local authorities choose whether to allow Easter trading.
The council adopted the draft policy last month and will make a final decision in the new year.
