ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day on 25 April honours the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps who served at Gallipoli in 1915 and all New Zealanders who have served in wars and conflicts.
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Date | Day | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday | 27 April (Monday) | |
| 2027 | Sunday | 26 April (Monday) | |
| 2028 | Tuesday | Same day |
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History & Origins
ANZAC Day commemorates the landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers at Gallipoli, Turkey, on 25 April 1915 during World War I. The campaign resulted in heavy casualties but forged a strong sense of national identity. ANZAC Day was first observed in 1916 and became a public holiday in 1921. It now honours all New Zealanders who have served in military conflicts.
Traditions & Customs
- Dawn services at war memorials and cenotaphs
- Wearing red poppies in remembrance
- Playing 'The Last Post' bugle call
- Civic ceremonies and parades
- ANZAC biscuits and gunfire breakfasts
- Two-up games (traditional gambling game)
Fun Facts
ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps
Dawn services start at 6am, reflecting the time of the original Gallipoli landing
ANZAC biscuits were originally sent to soldiers abroad by their families
The word 'ANZAC' is legally protected in New Zealand
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Where to Go
Wellington
Wellington
New Zealand's compact capital city, famous for its creative culture, craft coffee scene, Te Papa museum, and dramatic harbour setting.
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Auckland
Auckland
New Zealand's largest city, known as the 'City of Sails'. A vibrant multicultural hub with stunning harbours, volcanic cones, and world-class dining.
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Christchurch
Canterbury
The Garden City, rebuilt and reimagined after the 2011 earthquake. A gateway to the Southern Alps with innovative architecture and beautiful parks.
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Napier
Hawke's Bay
The Art Deco capital of the world, rebuilt in the 1930s after a devastating earthquake. A wine lover's paradise in the heart of Hawke's Bay.
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- 1Attend a dawn service — they're deeply moving experiences
- 2The National War Memorial in Wellington is a significant site
- 3Many museums have special ANZAC Day exhibitions
- 4Restaurants and cafes may have limited hours in the morning