Southland Anniversary Day
Celebrates the founding of Southland province. Tuesday following Easter Monday.
Southland Anniversary Day Dates 2026–2028
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Tuesday | |
| 2027 | Tuesday | |
| 2028 | Tuesday |
History of Southland Anniversary Day
Southland Anniversary Day marks the founding of the Southland province. Southland was settled from the 1850s, with Invercargill established as the main town. The province has strong Scottish heritage — many early settlers came from Scotland — and this is reflected in the distinctive Southland rolled 'r' in the local accent, unique among New Zealand dialects.
How Southland Anniversary Day Is Observed
Southland Anniversary Day falls on the Tuesday following Easter Monday, extending the Easter long weekend by a day. This makes Southland's Easter break one of New Zealand's longest public holiday periods — five consecutive days off. Invercargill, Stewart Island/Rakiura, and Fiordland are all within reach for a Southland Anniversary break.
Region Covered
Southland Anniversary Day applies to workers in the following areas: Invercargill, Queenstown (partial), Gore. If you live or work in this region, you are generally entitled to a paid day off on this date, or equivalent time-and-a-half pay if required to work.
Employment Entitlements
Regional anniversary days are public holidays for employees who live and work in the relevant region. Under the Holidays Act 2003:
- If the anniversary day falls on a day you would otherwise work, you are entitled to a paid day off.
- If you work on the anniversary day, you must receive at least time and a half pay, plus an alternative holiday (day in lieu).
- Whether the regional anniversary applies to a specific business may depend on the relevant industry and employment agreements.
For authoritative guidance, visit Employment New Zealand — Regional Anniversary Days.
View all New Zealand regional anniversary days or explore national public holidays.