New Zealanders can look forward to a well-spaced calendar of public holidays in 2025, with Matariki once again anchoring the mid-year break. Whether you’re planning travel, managing a business, or simply looking to maximize your long weekends, it’s crucial to understand how the New Zealand public holidays fall this year.
Below is a comprehensive list of NZ holidays 2025, including national observances and regional anniversary days.
Complete of New Zealand Public Holidays 2025
Date | Day | Holiday Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | National Holiday |
Jan 2 | Thursday | Day after New Year’s Day | National Holiday |
Jan 20 | Monday | Wellington Anniversary Day | Regional (Wellington) |
Jan 27 | Monday | Auckland/Nelson Anniversary | Regional |
Feb 3 | Monday | Northland Anniversary Day | Regional |
Feb 6 | Thursday | Waitangi Day | National Holiday |
Mar 24 | Monday | Otago Anniversary Day | Regional |
Apr 18 | Friday | Good Friday | National Holiday |
Apr 21 | Monday | Easter Monday | National Holiday |
Apr 25 | Friday | ANZAC Day | National Holiday |
Jun 2 | Monday | King’s Birthday | National Holiday |
Jun 20 | Friday | Matariki | National Holiday |
Oct 27 | Monday | Labour Day | National Holiday |
Dec 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | National Holiday |
Dec 26 | Friday | Boxing Day | National Holiday |
Matariki Public Holiday NZ: Honouring Māori New Year
The Matariki public holiday NZ celebrates the rising of the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades), marking the Māori New Year. In 2025, Matariki will be observed on Friday, June 20, offering a three-day weekend in the middle of winter — an ideal time for rest, reflection, or community gatherings.
Matariki is more than a day off. It’s a moment for storytelling, connecting with whānau, and honoring the past while looking ahead. Each year, the date shifts based on the lunar calendar and astronomical observations, making it a unique and deeply cultural addition to the New Zealand public holidays.
Long Weekends and Strategic Leave Tips
With several public holidays falling on Fridays and Mondays, 2025 is ideal for long weekends. Notably:
- Easter (April 18–21) spans four days.
- Matariki (June 20) on a Friday creates a winter escape.
- Labour Day (October 27) falls on a Monday.
- Christmas and Boxing Day (Dec 25–26) will make for an extended festive break, especially when paired with annual leave.
For savvy planners, booking one or two extra leave days around these holidays can create extended breaks — perfect for local travel or recharging.
Regional Anniversary Days in NZ Holidays 2025
Beyond national observances, many Kiwis enjoy region-specific holidays. Anniversary Days vary across provinces and are a core part of the NZ holidays 2025 calendar. For example:
- Auckland Anniversary (Jan 27)
- Wellington Anniversary (Jan 20)
- Otago Anniversary (Mar 24)
These dates are great opportunities for local events, festivals, or weekend getaways unique to each area.
Why Knowing Public Holiday Dates Matters
For businesses, public holidays impact operations, staffing, and payroll. For individuals, they influence travel planning, family events, and mental health breaks. As New Zealand continues to embrace holidays like Matariki that reflect bicultural identity, these observances grow in significance — socially, culturally, and economically.
By understanding the full calendar of New Zealand public holidays, you can get ahead of the curve, make meaningful plans, and stay aligned with both work and life commitments.
FAQs About NZ Holidays 2025
What is the date of Matariki public holiday in 2025?
The Matariki public holiday in 2025 will be observed on Friday, June 20.
How many public holidays are there in New Zealand in 2025?
There are 11 national public holidays in New Zealand in 2025, plus additional regional anniversary days.
Do all regions in New Zealand celebrate the same holidays?
No, each region has its own anniversary day in addition to the national public holidays.
Can employers require employees to work on public holidays?
Yes, but only under specific conditions outlined in the Holidays Act. Employees are typically entitled to time-and-a-half and an alternative day off.
When is Labour Day in 2025?
Labour Day falls on Monday, October 27, 2025.
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