The New Zealand government has passed legislation to remove the long-standing ban on alcohol sales in shops and on-licence premises on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Easter Trading) Amendment Bill passed its third reading in Parliament on March 26, 2026.
Justice Minister Duncan Webb said the change modernizes outdated laws and provides consistency and certainty for businesses and consumers. "The previous rules were a confusing patchwork for both businesses and consumers," Webb stated. The law will come into effect in time for the upcoming Easter weekend, which falls on April 3-6, 2026.
The reform removes the requirement for on-licence venues, like pubs and restaurants, to serve a "substantial meal" alongside alcohol on these days. Local councils will retain the power to set their own Easter Sunday shop trading policies, but the national alcohol sales prohibition is lifted.
The change follows a long-running debate over the religious origins of the trading restrictions. Supporters argued the laws were outdated, while opponents expressed concerns about increased alcohol-related harm.
