There's disappointment that a bill has been voted down to remove trading restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

The MP conscience vote landed on 74 to 49 against it.

Retail NZ says it would have allowed better competition with online websites that still operate on both public holidays. 

Chief executive Carolyn Young says it's sensible to let businesses be open if they want.

"People think everybody wants to have the day off with their family on that day - some people might rather work and get the penal rates and then be able to take the day-in-lieu that they get." 

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