Public Holidays

Before planning a trip to New Zealand, it is helpful to know the dates of public and school holidays. During these times, attractions, tours and accommodation can be busier, and the rates can be higher. Also, many businesses and all banks are closed on public holidays. On Christmas Day and Good Friday, all businesses are closed except for a few gas stations and convenience stores.

January 2 is only regarded as a holiday when New Year's Day falls on a Monday to Thursday.

Waitangi Day, observed on February 6, commemorates the signing of the Waitangi Treaty, which was a treaty signed on the same day in 1840 between the British Government and Maori chiefs. Meant to signify a friendship agreement between the colonisers and the conquered, the treaty was at times interpreted to the disadvantage of the Maori. While the treaty is largely controversial, it has been revisited in recent years in conjunction with a revived recognition of Maori people and culture. Today, many consider Waitangi Day to represent New Zealand's national day.

On April 25 each year, New Zealanders observe ANZAC day, which is an acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The name was established in 1914 to represent the grouping of the Australian Imperial Force and New Zealand Expeditionary Force that were then stationed in Egypt. On April 25, 1915, the ANZACs began their operational debut at Gallipoli, off the Aegean Sea in Turkey, where hundreds of ANZAC soldiers were killed or mortally wounded.

Regional Holidays

While provinces in New Zealand were abolished in the late 1800s, provincial anniversaries are still acknowledged by a public holiday celebrated in each region as illustrated in the chart. While the official dates are listed, the actual public holiday will fall on the Monday nearest the anniversary.

School Holidays

The most popular times in New Zealand for family holidays are during school breaks. School terms run all year in New Zealand and are divided into four terms. There are several days off between each term. The dates in which these school holidays fall often indicate high season rates at many attractions and hotels. While the dates change from year to year because of calendar changes, the times of school holidays generally are as indicated in the chart. Of all the school terms, the longest and busiest holiday occurs after the fourth term.