contacts Sign In
image
author Image

Are Supermarkets Open On Good Friday

Are Supermarkets Open on Good Friday 2026? NZ Easter Trading Hours Explained

NEW ZEALAND – As the Easter long weekend approaches, many Kiwis are asking the same question: Are supermarkets open on Good Friday? In 2026, Good Friday falls on 3 April, and due to New Zealand’s strict shop trading laws, the short answer is no. Most major supermarkets including Woolworths (formerly Countdown), New World, and Pak’nSave will be closed nationwide.

Here is everything you need to know to avoid being caught without the essentials this Easter.

Why are Supermarkets Closed Today?

Under the Shop Trading Hours Act 1990, Good Friday is one of the three-and-a-half “restricted trading days” in New Zealand (the others being Easter Sunday, Christmas Day, and ANZAC Day until 1:00 PM).

On these days, almost all retail stores—including large supermarkets and malls—are legally required to close. This law is designed to give retail workers a guaranteed break, regardless of the current economic climate.

Where CAN You Buy Groceries on Good Friday?

While the big chains are shut, there are a few legal “exemptions” that allow certain shops to stay open. If you’ve forgotten the milk or need last-minute hot cross buns, look for these:

  • Dairies and Convenience Stores: Most local dairies and “Superettes” can open, provided they only sell “essential items” like food, drink, and personal items.

  • Service Stations: Most petrol stations remain open 24/7 for fuel, snacks, and basic grocery items.

  • Pharmacies: Chemist Warehouse and local pharmacies are allowed to open without restrictions.

  • Prepared Food: Cafes, restaurants, and takeaway bars can open as long as the food is ready to eat immediately.

  • Exempt Regions: A few specific tourist areas, such as Queenstown and parts of Paihia, have historical exemptions that allow some retail to remain open.

Supermarket Hours for the Rest of Easter Weekend

DayDateStatus
Good Friday3 April 2026CLOSED (Nationwide)
Easter Saturday4 April 2026OPEN (Normal Hours)
Easter Sunday5 April 2026MOSTLY CLOSED (Except in councils with local policies)
Easter Monday6 April 2026OPEN (Normal or Public Holiday Hours)

Pro Tip: While Easter Saturday is a normal trading day, it is notoriously the busiest shopping day of the year. If you can, do your “big shop” on Wednesday or Thursday to avoid the crowds.

The 2026 Context: Why Planning Matters

With the ongoing impact of the 2026 Middle East conflict on transport costs, supply chains can be slightly more volatile during long weekends. Buying in bulk earlier in the week isn’t just about avoiding the Good Friday closure; it’s a smart way to manage your budget as fuel and freight surcharges continue to fluctuate.

Furthermore, as we see a shift in consumer habits, why energy-efficient homes and EV chargers are now top priorities for buyers is also reflected in our shopping. More Kiwis are choosing to stay home and host “low-energy” Easter brunches rather than traveling, leading to a higher demand for fresh produce at local supermarkets leading up to the holiday.