NZ Holidays
Summer kayaking and water activities on a scenic New Zealand lake

Boxing Day

Boxing Day on 26 December extends the Christmas celebrations with shopping, sports, and summer activities. It's a day for relaxation, cricket, and taking advantage of post-Christmas sales.

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Upcoming Dates

YearDateDayObserved
2026Saturday28 December (Monday)
2027Sunday28 December (Tuesday)
2028TuesdaySame day

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History & Origins

Boxing Day has its origins in the British tradition of giving gifts (boxes) to servants and tradespeople the day after Christmas. In New Zealand, it has evolved into a day of sporting events, shopping sales, and continued summer celebrations. The Boxing Day Test cricket match is a beloved tradition.

Traditions & Customs

  • Boxing Day sales and shopping
  • Cricket matches — the Boxing Day Test
  • Beach days and water sports
  • Continuing family gatherings
  • Enjoying Christmas leftovers

Fun Facts

Boxing Day sales are one of the biggest shopping events of the year

The name comes from the tradition of giving 'Christmas boxes' to servants

The Boxing Day Test cricket match is a major sporting event

Many Kiwis start their summer road trips on Boxing Day

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Where to Go

Auckland city skyline featuring the iconic Sky Tower in New Zealand

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.

Sky TowerWaiheke IslandRangitoto Island

Stay in Auckland

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Auckland for your holiday getaway.

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Iconic red Wellington Cable Car with panoramic city and harbour views in New Zealand capital

Wellington

Wellington

New Zealand's compact capital city, famous for its creative culture, craft coffee scene, Te Papa museum, and dramatic harbour setting.

Te Papa MuseumWellington Cable CarCuba Street

Stay in Wellington

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Wellington for your holiday getaway.

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Tranquil beach view in Christchurch the Garden City of New Zealand

Christchurch

Canterbury

The Garden City, rebuilt and reimagined after the 2011 earthquake. A gateway to the Southern Alps with innovative architecture and beautiful parks.

Christchurch Botanic GardensCardboard CathedralHagley Park

Stay in Christchurch

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Christchurch for your holiday getaway.

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Waikato River in autumn with the Fairfield Bridge reflected in calm water in Hamilton New Zealand

Hamilton

Waikato

A vibrant inland city on the Waikato River, gateway to the Hobbiton movie set, Waitomo Caves, and the lush Waikato farmland.

Hamilton GardensHobbitonWaitomo Caves

Stay in Hamilton

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Hamilton for your holiday getaway.

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Surfer riding a powerful turquoise wave at Mount Maunganui beach in Tauranga New Zealand

Tauranga

Bay of Plenty

A sunny coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, Mount Maunganui, and relaxed lifestyle. One of NZ's fastest-growing cities.

Mount MaunganuiPapamoa BeachMcLaren Falls Park

Stay in Tauranga

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Tauranga for your holiday getaway.

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Travel Tips

  1. 1Hit the Boxing Day sales in major shopping centres
  2. 2Great day for beach activities and water sports
  3. 3Consider starting a road trip through the South Island
  4. 4Many tourist attractions reopen after Christmas Day