A member's bill from Labour MP Kieran McAnulty, which would amend the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act to allow premises with an on-license to sell alcohol on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, passed its first reading in New Zealand's Parliament on 30 March 2026. The bill was supported by the coalition government and passed 77 to 43.
The legislation, the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Good Friday and Easter Sunday Trading) Amendment Bill, seeks to remove the two remaining days of the year where such sales are generally prohibited. The bill has been sent to the Justice Committee for public submissions.
If enacted, the changes would not be in effect for the Easter weekend of 2026. Hospitality New Zealand has welcomed the move, arguing the current rules are outdated and inconsistent, as alcohol can already be sold in supermarkets on those days. Some opposition MPs and community groups have expressed concerns about the potential social harm.
