NZ Holidays
Colorful fireworks lighting up the night sky for New Year celebration in Auckland New Zealand

New Year's Day

New Year's Day marks the beginning of a new year and is one of New Zealand's most celebrated public holidays. Kiwis welcome the new year with fireworks, beach gatherings, and community events across the country.

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Upcoming Dates

YearDateDayObserved
2026ThursdaySame day
2027FridaySame day
2028Saturday3 January (Monday)

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History & Origins

New Year's Day has been a public holiday in New Zealand since the Holidays Act was first established. As one of the first countries to see the new year thanks to its position near the International Date Line, New Zealand holds a special place in global New Year celebrations. The East Cape town of Gisborne is famously one of the first cities in the world to welcome each new year.

Traditions & Customs

  • Fireworks displays in major cities, especially Auckland's Sky Tower
  • Beach parties and barbecues with friends and family
  • First sunrise hikes, particularly at East Cape
  • Community concerts and outdoor festivals
  • Swimming and water sports as it falls in summer

Fun Facts

Gisborne is one of the first cities in the world to see the new year's sunrise

Auckland's Sky Tower fireworks display is broadcast internationally

Many Kiwis spend New Year's at campgrounds and holiday parks

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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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Stunning sunrise over the coast at East Cape Gisborne New Zealand

Gisborne

Gisborne

The first city in the world to see the sunrise each day. A laid-back surf town rich in Māori heritage and surrounded by beautiful coastline.

East Cape sunriseSurfing at Wainui BeachEastwoodhill Arboretum

Stay in Gisborne

Find the best deals on hotels and accommodation in Gisborne 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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Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu surrounded by the Remarkables mountains

Queenstown

Otago

The adventure capital of the world, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables mountain range as a dramatic backdrop.

Bungee jumpingMilford SoundSkyline Gondola

Stay in Queenstown

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

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Travel Tips

  1. 1Book accommodation well in advance as this is peak holiday season
  2. 2Pack sunscreen and hats — it's midsummer in New Zealand
  3. 3Consider camping at DOC sites for a true Kiwi experience
  4. 4Expect higher prices and crowded popular destinations