"Parliament has delivered real hope for hospo venues and rugby fans looking forward to the historic opening weekend of Christchurch's new stadium," says ACT MP Cameron Luxton.

Legislation currently before Parliament has now been amended to ensure bars can open after midnight on ANZAC and Easter holidays – such as for next month's opening of the new Te Kaha / One New Zealand stadium in Christchurch.

Mr Luxton's amendment to Kieran McAnulty's Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Sales on Anzac Day Morning, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day) Amendment Bill passed a conscience vote late last evening.

The member's bill itself still needs to pass its final reading in Parliament, likely on 1 April.

"I'm cautiously optimistic that the bill will clear its remaining hurdle and become law in time for the Super Rugby Pacific Super Round on April 24-26. This is a common-sense fix that cuts unnecessary red tape and will allow Christchurch to shine bright into the night on a historic weekend."

Mr McAnulty's bill, as originally written, would allow restaurants and cafes to operate under normal alcohol rules on ANZAC and Easter holidays. Mr Luxton's amendment fixes provisions in the Shop Trading Act to ensure the liberalisation extends to on-licence businesses that primarily serve alcohol, such as bars and nightclubs.

"Alcohol rules on ANZAC and Easter holidays are famously complex and cause headaches not just for punters and venues, but for the poor staff who have to enforce the rules," says Mr Luxton. "I've been pushing for simpler rules, and I'm grateful that Kieran – and Parliament as a whole – has agreed with my proposal to simplify the rules for bars.

"The long and short of it is – if the amended bill passes – bars won't have kick guests out when the clock strikes midnight on the night before ANZAC day, Easter Friday, and Easter Sunday.

"We're treating adults like adults and backing venues to make the most of an epic weekend. Cheers to that."

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