Easter trading rules are back in the spotlight, with two Wānaka supermarkets facing potential fines for remaining open throughout the long weekend.

So-called 'non-essential businesses' need an exemption to open on Good Friday or Easter Sunday.

Dairies, restaurants, cafes and pharmacies are currently considered essential, but Wānaka Business Chamber General Manager Glenn Peat says supermarkets could argue they're essential too.

"It is breaking the law, and we just have to look at it from the perspective of what the community may need at that particular time."

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