New Zealand Public Holidays 2024: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re new to New Zealand or just entering the workforce, it’s important to understand your entitlements regarding public holidays. From Waitangi Day to Matariki, here’s your guide to New Zealand’s national and regional holidays in 2024.
National Public Holidays 2024
- New Year’s Day – January 1st (Monday)
- Day After New Year’s Day – January 2nd (Tuesday)
- Waitangi Day – February 6th (Tuesday)
- Good Friday – March 29th (Friday)
- Easter Monday – April 1st (Monday)
- ANZAC Day – April 25th (Thursday)
- King’s Birthday – June 3rd (Monday)
- Matariki – June 28th (Friday)
- Labour Day – October 28th (Monday)
- Christmas Day – December 25th (Wednesday)
- Boxing Day – December 26th (Thursday)
Regional Public Holidays 2024
In addition to national holidays, each region celebrates its own anniversary day. Here are some of the key regional holidays:
- Auckland Anniversary – January 29th (Monday)
- Wellington Anniversary – January 22nd (Monday)
- Taranaki Anniversary – March 11th (Monday)
- Southland Anniversary – April 2nd (Tuesday)
- Canterbury Anniversary – November 15th (Friday)
See the full list of New Zealand regional holidays.
Understanding Public Holidays in New Zealand
Statutory vs. Observance Holidays
Statutory holidays are paid days off if they fall on an employee’s regular working day. If you work on a statutory holiday, you’re entitled to time and a half, plus a day off in lieu. Key statutory holidays include Waitangi Day, ANZAC Day, and Labour Day.
Observance days, such as Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day, are widely celebrated but don’t qualify for a paid day off. Most businesses remain open, and employees don’t get any special entitlements.
Your Rights as an Employee on Public Holidays
As an employee, if a public holiday falls on a day you would usually work, you are entitled to a paid day off. If your employer requires you to work, they must compensate you at 1.5x your regular pay and provide a day off in lieu, depending on your employment agreement.
Businesses like restaurants and retail stores often remain open, especially on holidays like King’s Birthday and Matariki. If you’re working these days, ensure you receive the correct pay and any additional leave.
How Does Mondayisation Work in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, if a public holiday falls on a weekend, it may be “Mondayised.” This means if you don’t work on the weekend, you can observe the holiday on the following Monday. Holidays eligible for Mondayisation include:
- Waitangi Day
- ANZAC Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year’s Day
However, Easter Sunday is not subject to Mondayisation and does not guarantee a paid day off.
Public Holiday FAQs
Are Shops Open on Public Holidays?
Certain holidays, like Good Friday and Christmas Day, have restrictions on trading. However, essential services such as supermarkets, service stations, and pharmacies can operate under certain conditions.
Does Public Transport Operate?
Public transport often operates on a reduced schedule, following a Sunday timetable. Be sure to check your local service provider for updates during holidays like Christmas and Easter.
Plan Your 2024 Holidays
Whether you’re planning a vacation, attending a cultural event, or just enjoying some time off, New Zealand’s public holidays give you plenty of opportunities to unwind. Keep track of these important dates and make the most of the year ahead!
External References:
- Employment New Zealand – Public Holiday Rights
- This page provides comprehensive details about public holidays, including statutory holidays, Mondayisation, and employee rights concerning public holiday pay and leave. It is an official source from the New Zealand government.
- Link: https://www.employment.govt.nz/leave-and-holidays/public-holidays/
- Holidays Act 2003 – New Zealand Legislation
- The Holidays Act governs the public holiday system in New Zealand, including statutory entitlements, Mondayisation, and how public holidays are observed. This link leads to the full text of the Act.
- Link: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2003/0129/latest/whole.html
- New Zealand Government – Matariki Public Holiday
- Information about the addition of Matariki as a public holiday, why it was introduced, and how it is celebrated in New Zealand.
- Link: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/business-and-employment/employment-and-skills/employment-legislation-reviews/matariki-public-holiday/
- New Zealand Public Transport – Holiday Timetables
- Many regional councils provide specific schedules for public transport services on public holidays, including reduced or altered timetables. Information can be accessed for different regions.
- Link: https://at.govt.nz/bus-train-ferry
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