Wanaka is thriving under new Easter trading laws but not all tourist towns are reaping the benefits.

Last year's law change means it is up to local councils to decide if shops in their patches can open for businesses on Easter Sunday.

Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean says it's a shame some Councils didn't allow small towns to be open today, as they are missing out on a spike in tourists.

"Easter Weekend is the last big weekend where they have the opportunity to trade well so it's a really good opportunity to have good trading at a time when people want to shop"

Ms Dean said the law lets employees have the day off, even if they're scheduled to work.

"There are really strong protections in the law which says that no one can be compelled to work on Easter Sunday"