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Anzac Day 2026 NZ Guide

Anzac Day 2026 NZ - Anzac Day long weekend 2026

Anzac Day 2026: Your Guide to the Long Weekend and Public Holiday Rules

Anzac Day (April 25) is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a time for New Zealanders to honor those who served and sacrificed. In 2026, the way we observe this day is unique due to its falling on a weekend, triggering specific employment and trading laws.

Is Anzac Day a Long Weekend in NZ?

Yes. Because Anzac Day falls on a Saturday in 2026, the public holiday is “Mondayized.” This means that for the majority of New Zealanders who work a standard Monday-to-Friday week, the public holiday is observed on Monday, 27 April 2026. This creates a three-day long weekend for most office workers and public servants.

 

Is April 25 a Holiday in New Zealand?

Technically, Saturday, April 25 is the day of commemoration, but whether it is your paid public holiday depends on your work schedule:

  • If you normally work Saturdays: April 25 is your public holiday. You get the day off with pay, or if you work, you get time-and-a-half plus an alternative day off (day in lieu).

     

  • If you do NOT normally work Saturdays: Your public holiday “moves” to Monday, April 27. Saturday is just a normal Saturday for you, and Monday becomes your paid day off.

     

Trading Hours: What’s Open on Anzac Day?

Anzac Day is one of New Zealand’s few restricted trading days. Under the Shop Trading Hours Act, almost all shops must remain closed until 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 25.

Supermarket & Mall Hours

  • Before 1:00 PM: Major supermarkets (Countdown/Woolworths, New World, PAK’nSAVE) and malls will be closed.

     

  • After 1:00 PM: Most stores will open their doors, though some may operate with reduced evening hours.

  • Exemptions: Petrol stations, pharmacies, cafes, and restaurants are allowed to open before 1:00 PM, though many cafes choose to stay closed until after local dawn services have concluded.

Services and Parades: “Lest We Forget”

Commemorations will take place across the country on Saturday, April 25.

 

  • Dawn Services: Most local RSAs will hold services beginning between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM.

     

  • National Commemoration: The National Service will be held at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park in Wellington at 11:00 AM. This service will be broadcast live on TVNZ 1 and RNZ National for those who cannot attend in person.

Anzac Day FAQ for 2026

Do I get holiday pay for Monday if I work Saturday?

No. You only get public holiday entitlements (time-and-a-half and a day in lieu) for one of the days. If Saturday is your usual working day, that is your holiday. You cannot “double dip” on both Saturday and Monday.

 

Can I buy alcohol on Anzac Day?

Alcohol sales are restricted until 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 25. After 1:00 PM, normal Saturday licensing rules apply. However, if you are dining at a restaurant before 1:00 PM, you can generally be served alcohol as long as it is accompanied by a substantial meal.

Are banks open on Monday, April 27?

Since Monday is the observed public holiday, banks and most government offices (including Work and Income service centres) will be closed nationwide.

Expert Advice: If you are a business owner, ensure your Google Business Profile is updated for both Saturday and Monday.

With the RBNZ keeping a close eye on domestic spending, understanding your take-home pay is more important than ever. For a complete breakdown of how recent policy shifts affect your wallet, check out our guide on the NZ Minimum Wage 2026, which covers the latest hourly rates and essential updates to KiwiSaver contribution rules.