Public Holidays in New Zealand for 2025
| Date | Holiday Name |
|---|---|
| 2025-01-01 | New Year’s Day |
| 2025-01-02 | Day after New Year’s Day |
| 2025-01-20 | Wellington Anniversary Day |
| 2025-01-27 | Northland Anniversary Day |
| 2025-01-27 | Auckland Anniversary Day |
| 2025-02-03 | Nelson Anniversary Day |
| 2025-02-06 | Waitangi Day |
| 2025-02-14 | Valentine’s Day |
| 2025-03-10 | Taranaki Anniversary Day |
| 2025-03-20T22:01:21+13:00 | March Equinox |
| 2025-03-24 | Otago Anniversary Day |
| 2025-04-01 | April Fools |
| 2025-04-18 | Good Friday |
| 2025-04-19 | Holy Saturday |
| 2025-04-20 | Easter Sunday |
| 2025-04-21 | Easter Monday |
| 2025-04-22 | Southland Anniversary Day |
| 2025-04-25 | ANZAC Day |
| 2025-05-11 | Mother’s Day |
| 2025-06-02 | King’s Birthday |
| 2025-06-20 | Matariki |
| 2025-06-21T14:42:15+12:00 | June Solstice |
| 2025-09-07 | Fathers’ Day |
| 2025-09-22 | South Canterbury Anniversary Day |
| 2025-09-23T06:19:22+12:00 | September Equinox |
| 2025-10-24 | Hawke’s Bay Anniversary Day |
| 2025-10-27 | Labour Day |
| 2025-10-31 | Halloween |
| 2025-11-03 | Marlborough Anniversary Day |
| 2025-11-05 | Guy Fawkes Night |
| 2025-11-14 | Canterbury Anniversary Day |
| 2025-12-01 | Chatham Islands Anniversary Day |
| 2025-12-01 | Westland Anniversary Day |
| 2025-12-22T04:03:05+13:00 | December Solstice |
| 2025-12-24 | Christmas Eve |
| 2025-12-25 | Christmas Day |
| 2025-12-26 | Boxing Day |
| 2025-12-31 | New Year’s Eve |
New Year’s Day Introduction
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the year in the Gregorian calendar, which is used by most of the world. This festive occasion is not only a time for reflection on the past year but also a moment for hopeful anticipation of new beginnings. Interestingly, the origins of New Year’s celebrations date back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, where the new year was celebrated during the vernal equinox. Traditions vary globally, from fireworks lighting up the night sky to the iconic ball drop in Times Square, New York City. Many cultures have unique customs, such as eating specific foods believed to bring good luck, like lentils in Italy or grapes in Spain, where people consume 12 grapes at midnight—one for each stroke of the clock. Across the world, New Year’s Day serves as a reminder of renewal, unity, and the shared hope for a prosperous year ahead.
Day after New Year’s Day Introduction
The Day after New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 2nd, is often overshadowed by the excitement of New Year’s Day itself. However, this holiday holds its own unique charm and significance. Traditionally a time for recovery from the revelry of New Year’s celebrations, it allows people to relax, reflect, and set intentions for the year ahead. Interestingly, this day is recognized as a public holiday in some cultures, providing an opportunity for extended family gatherings and community events. In Scotland, for example, it is known as “Hogmanay,” and is a day for visiting friends and exchanging gifts. Many businesses remain closed, giving employees a chance to recuperate after the busy holiday season. Additionally, January 2nd is often seen as a time for “out with the old, in with the new,” encouraging people to declutter their homes and lives. Whether it’s through quiet reflection or social gatherings, the Day after New Year’s Day serves as a gentle transition into the new year, inviting individuals to embrace fresh beginnings with optimism.
Wellington Anniversary Day Introduction
Wellington Anniversary Day is a public holiday celebrated in the Wellington region of New Zealand, commemorating the arrival of the first European settlers in 1840. Observed on the Monday closest to January 22, this festive occasion marks a significant moment in the capital’s history. The day is rich in cultural activities, featuring parades, community events, and outdoor festivities that reflect the vibrant spirit of Wellington. An interesting fact is that this holiday not only honors the city’s colonial past but also highlights its diverse heritage, showcasing Māori culture through performances and storytelling. Wellington Anniversary Day serves as a reminder of the city’s evolution, inviting locals and visitors alike to celebrate its unique identity and community spirit.
Northland Anniversary Day Introduction
Northland Anniversary Day, celebrated on the last Monday in January, commemorates the arrival of the first European settlers in the Northland region of New Zealand in 1840. This vibrant holiday is marked by various festivities, including parades, cultural performances, and community events that showcase the rich heritage of the area. Northland, known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, is home to the Treaty of Waitangi, the founding document of New Zealand, signed in 1840. This anniversary not only celebrates the region’s pioneering spirit but also fosters a sense of unity and reflection on the significance of cultural heritage and cooperation between Māori and Pākehā. Each year, locals and visitors partake in recreational activities, enjoy local cuisine, and engage in storytelling, making it a day of both remembrance and celebration of Northland’s unique identity.
Auckland Anniversary Day Introduction
Auckland Anniversary Day, celebrated on the first Monday of February, marks the founding of Auckland, New Zealand, in 1840. This public holiday is a vibrant celebration of the city’s rich history and diverse culture. Originally commemorated by local settlers, it has evolved into a lively occasion filled with parades, festivals, and outdoor activities. One of the most intriguing aspects of this day is its connection to the region’s heritage, as it honors not only European settlers but also the Māori culture. With events such as yacht races on the sparkling Waitematā Harbour and community gatherings in parks, Aucklanders embrace the summer sun while reflecting on their city’s past. The holiday also serves as a reminder of the city’s development, which has transformed it into New Zealand’s largest urban center, renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant arts scene.