An Auckland supermarket owner is receiving bundles of praise after announcing the store would stay closed on Boxing day.
Pukekohe New World owner Tim Wilson made the announcement on Facebook saying he wanted to reward his staff and allow them to "recharge and celebrate a year of endurance and courage."
"I have decided that we will take an extra day this Christmas and remain closed on Boxing Day to allow my team some extra time with their loved ones, to recharge and celebrate a year of endurance and courage," he wrote.
Wilson wrote that 2021 had been a year of "trials and tribulations" and that he owes "huge gratitude" to his staff.
"As I reflect on the past year and the trials and tribulations we have all faced in different ways, I come back to the huge gratitude I owe my incredible team," Wilson said. "They have put the needs of the store and feeding the community ahead of their own stresses and concerns associated with this ever-changing pandemic world."
"We thank the community for bearing with us as we tried our best to make shopping as safe and comfortable as possible."
Wilson also thanked the public for all "supportive comments" they made to staff.
The law currently states that almost all shops must be closed on Christmas Day but can reopen on Boxing Day.
The Facebook post has been flooded with positive comments applauding the decision.
One person said, "fantastic decision" while another said "Nice work Timmy. People ahead of profit."
Another person posted, "I wish more retailers would allow their staff this rest and family time. One thing the pandemic lockdowns reminded me is that we do not need retail open all the time."
Wilson ended the post wishing everyone a happy festive season.
"So from our wonderful New World family to yours… we wish you a well deserved, restful and Merry Christmas and we look forward to serving you in 2022."
