NZ’s public holiday alcohol laws have changed: How it affects Easter weekend

Kiwis can now finally grab a drink on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, ANZAC Day, and Christmas Day without questioning the rules of what is allowed.

The member’s bill from Labour MP Kieran McAnulty, aiming to clear up the longstanding restrictions around alcohol sales on public holidays, has been given the green light after passing its third and final reading yesterday and going through Royal Assent earlier today.

With such a quick turnaround, you’re excused for being a little confused about what this means for the long weekend ahead - so let’s clear it up.

What is changing for alcohol sales on public holidays?

As of this weekend, hospitality operators can now trade if they wish to do so.

Venues that are already open - like bars and restaurants - are able to sell alcohol under their normal licence conditions and operate to their usual business hours - no more closing at midnight tonight, or waiting until 12:01am on Saturday morning to open.

“We encourage people to go and enjoy your local venue or make the most of the hospitality on offer if travelling across the motu this weekend,” Kristy Phillips, Hospitality NZ’s Chief Executive, said.

What hasn't changed?

“Until now, the Easter Holiday Weekend has consisted of four days of trade, each with a completely different set of rules as to how hospitality can trade," Phillips added.

Previously, if you planned to head to a bar or restaurant on a public holiday, where restrictions from the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 applied, you could only be served alcohol if you were dining or staying there.

Off-licences, including bottle stores and supermarkets, are still not allowed to sell alcohol on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, or Christmas Day, and can only sell after 1 pm on ANZAC Day.

Why it’s a big deal this year

The change comes as Christchurch gears up for a massive weekend of sport, with Super Rugby Pacific’s Super Round taking over the new One NZ Stadium this ANZAC weekend.

With pubs and bars’ operating hours now being unaffected by the public holidays, it means fans heading out after the games don’t suddenly need to be kicked out at midnight.

Instead, celebrations can kick on into the night at local venues around the city.

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee told RNZ: "This is a practical fix that removes confusion and inconsistency between alcohol laws and shop trading restrictions.”

"This is huge for hospitality, especially after a rough few years, and something I've been keen to see fixed for some time,” McKee added.

So, with the change coming into effect, will you be needing to rethink your weekend plans?!