Here's the full list of New Zealand’s national public and regional holidays.

Aotearoa New Zealand celebrates eleven national public holidays throughout the year, during which banks, offices, and some shops are closed. In addition, each region has its own regional anniversary, celebrated at different times throughout the year.

If you are planning to travel in New Zealand during these peak periods, it’s wise to book flights, tours, and accommodation well in advance to avoid missing out.

Hooker Valley Track, Aoraki Mt Cook
Christchurch - Canterbury
Hooker Valley Track, Aoraki Mt Cook, Christchurch - Canterbury

National public holidays

These holidays are recognized nationwide and may or may not fall under the same dates every year. Should some of these dates fall on a Sunday, then the following Monday will be considered the holiday. 

National public holidays 2026

  • New Year’s Day: Thursday 1 January
  • Day after New Year’s Day: Friday 2 January
  • Waitangi Day: Friday 6 February
  • Good Friday: Friday 3 April
  • Easter Monday: Monday 6 April
  • Anzac Day: 25 April (Observed Monday 27 April)
  • King’s Birthday: Monday 1 June
  • Matariki: Friday 10 July
  • Labour Day: Monday 26 October
  • Christmas Day: Friday 25 December
  • Boxing Day: 26 December (Observed Monday 28 December)

Iglesia Good Shepherd en el lago Tekapo
Christchurch - Canterbury
Iglesia Good Shepherd, Christchurch - Canterbury

Regional Anniversary Holidays

Regional or provincial anniversary days are normally observed on a Monday nearest to the actual day. This means they are always a great opportunity for a long weekend away.  

These holidays are only celebrated within each province, and not nationwide. 

Regional anniversary dates 2026 

  • Auckland: Monday 26 January
  • Canterbury (South): Monday 28 September
  • Canterbury: Friday 13 November
  • Chatham Islands: Monday 30 November
  • Hawke’s Bay: Friday 23 October
  • Marlborough: Monday 2 November
  • Nelson: Monday 2 February
  • Otago: Monday 23 March
  • Southland: Tuesday 7 April
  • Taranaki:   Monday 9 March
  • Wellington: Monday 19 January
  • Westland: Monday 30 November