Public & National Holidays in New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country that is situated in the south-western Pacific Ocean. Just like neighbouring Australia, New Zealand is a place of diverse cultures, ranging from the local Maoris, to Asians, to Pacific peoples and the Europeans who are in majority. And just like the Aussies, Kiwis love their public and national holidays and celebrate them with great zest and respect.
Instructions
-
1
Holidays in January
New Year’s Day
On January 1, all New Zealanders celebrate the New Year in various ways and it is a spectacle worth seeing if you happen to travel to the country during New Year’s Eve. People also make their New Year’s Resolution on these days.
Day after New Year’s Day
One January 2, people living in New Zealand get another day off and they spend their time relaxing on this day. Some people go for camping or having fun on the beaches on this day. This day is a statutory public holiday in the country. -
2
Holidays in February
The Waitangi Day
Every year on February 6, New Zealand commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi that happened in 1840. On that day, the British Crown and local Maori chiefs signed what was to be the country’s founding document. This date of immense importance to the country’s people and is celebrated accordingly. -
3
Holidays in March
Good Friday
Just like in most of the Christian countries, Good Friday is a religious public holiday in which Christians remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This day is the start of a four-day weekend which also includes Easter Monday. People plan short trips out of their places or spend time with family on this day while most of the churches hold special sermons. Although the date varies, Good Friday will be celebrated in New Zealand on March 29 this year. -
4
Holidays in April
Easter Monday
This time, Easter Monday will be celebrated in New Zealand on April 1, 2013. Just like Good Friday, Easter Monday is a religious day during which homage is paid to Jesus Christ and Christians all over the country remember the resurrection of their messiah. Chocolate eggs are the most popular theme of Easter Monday and some churches hold special services on this day.
ANZAC Day
The ANZAC Day was first celebrated on April 25, 1916 to commemorate all the New Zealanders who lost their lives during the First World War. The date is also the anniversary of the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers, ANZAC on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915. The day is celebrated with great respect all over the country. -
5
Holidays in June
Queen’s Birthday
Each year on June 3, New Zealanders celebrate the birthday of the Queen as the country is a constitutional monarchy with the Queen of the United Kingdom being the head of state. The day is also the official opening of the ski season in the country and is part of a long weekend as it is usually held on a Monday. A Queen’s Honours list is also released on that day where people are recognised for their services. -
6
Holidays in October
Labour Day
On October 28, 2013, New Zealanders will celebrate the Labour Day in respect to all the workers who work day and night for the development of the country. -
7
Holidays in December
Christmas Day
On December 25, every Christian in the world, including in New Zealand, celebrate the birth of their saviour and spend time with their loved ones.
Boxing Day
The Boxing Day comes on December 26 and on that day, people spend time with their family and go on short trips.
