A holiday calendar can show two dates for the same holiday. The actual date identifies the holiday itself. An observed weekday date helps many Monday–Friday workers plan their time off when that holiday lands on a weekend.
Read both columns
Our tables keep the actual date beside the observed weekday date. If they differ, use the observed column for a typical weekday leave plan. Keep the actual date in mind for commemorations, events and opening hours.
Your roster matters
Weekend workers should not assume the observed weekday is an additional holiday. Whether the actual or substitute date applies depends on the working pattern. Our planner is a planning aid, rather than a payroll calculator. Use Employment New Zealand and your employer to confirm the arrangement that applies to you.
Check regional dates separately
An anniversary holiday is local. Select the area relevant to your workplace and check local custom, especially when your home and workplace are in different places. Our regional anniversary guide keeps local dates apart from national dates.
School closures are another calendar
A school closure does not necessarily mean a public holiday for adults. Keep school-only days in the family calendar without adding them to your list of work holidays. The school pages point out Easter Tuesday and flexible school dates.
Before booking
Confirm your roster, the public holiday date used at work, approved annual leave and any school commitments. Then compare travel dates. This sequence helps prevent a long-weekend idea from turning into an unexpected extra leave request.