Auckland's mayoral candidates remain divided on one of the first big issues the new city leader will face.

The Government passed a law in August allowing the next set of councillors to vote on whether local shops should be allowed to open on Easter holidays.

Phil Goff would vote against what he calls the "commercialisation of Easter" outside tourist areas.

John Palino, David Hay, Penny Bright and Patrick Brown also oppose Easter trading.

Vic Crone would supports its providing workers aren't forced to work those days, Susanna Kruger is okay with Easter trading, and Stan Martin may support trading on one day but not another.

Chloe Swarbrick and Tyrone Raumati want to open the issue to public consultation, and Mark Thomas wants the decision passed on to local boards.

The next council will determine the Easter trading rules for Auckland. We asked the candidates: Do you support or oppose any Easter trading?

Here are their responses.

Tyrone Raumati
It is clear that consumer opinion is more favourable nowadays toward Easter trading, particularly with the increasing diversity of cultures and faiths in Auckland. Whilst many businesses may benefit from increased revenue as a result, this should be balanced with a sincere intention of respecting not just a significant religious holiday, but also the fact that quality time for families is becoming even more precious with the pressures of modern life. Council must also be cognisant of the rights of employees, who may face pressure from employers to work on a public holiday despite their own preferences. This issue is a good example of where it will be important to test public opinion through meaningful consultation –not excessive, but effective engagement. The council already has ‘the people’s panel’, who are consulted on a range of topics. Local Boards should also be canvassed to ascertain the views of their communities and local businesses.

Chloe Swarbrick
As Mayor, I would be facilitating serious and substantive consultation with retailers and hospitality owners, staff, and communities prior to making the decision - rationale for which would be highly publicised. A baseless politicised solution is not required here, but a solution that strengthens and supports Auckland and its population.

John Palino
I oppose Easter trading.

Patrick Brown
The Communist League supports the union stand in opposition to extension of Easter trading.

Mark Thomas
I support communities having the option to choose. Easter trading will be supported by some town centres, but others may not want it. Local Boards should make the decisions on this, within a general regional framework, just as we have done with dog rules.

Stan Martin
I support Easter trading in the sense of reducing it to just one day (like just Sunday) of non trading.

Phil Goff
I voted in Parliament not to fully commercialise the three and half days out of 365 which are currently protected. While some areas are properly exempted, I do not support overall commercialisation of these days.

Vic Crone
I absolutely support the options for retailers AND workers. Retailers should have the option of opening over Easter but equally employees should also have protected rights where it's completely acceptable if they don’t want to work over Easter.

David Hay
I think we could do without shopping for a few days each year. Easter Sunday should be one of them.

Penny Bright
In my view, central government should not have 'passed the Easter trading parcel' to local government, and nation-wide there should be consistency. I understand that for some people, Easter Sunday is a special family day and I support it staying that way.

Susanna Kruger
Support Easter trading.