Are Supermarkets Open on King’s Birthday 2026? NZ Opening Hours

With the first winter long weekend officially here, many Kiwis are planning getaways, family gatherings, or just a quiet day at home. However, long weekends in New Zealand often leave shoppers wondering about retail rules.

If you need to top up your groceries, the good news is that unlike Good Friday or Easter Sunday, King’s Birthday (Monday, June 1, 2026) is not a restricted trading day. Most major supermarkets, shopping malls, and retail stores across the country will be open, though many will operate under reduced holiday hours.

Here is your complete guide to supermarket openings, surcharge rules, and mall hours for King’s Birthday 2026.

1. Major Supermarket Hours (Monday, June 1)

While the law allows supermarkets to open normally, individual stores usually adjust their schedules to give staff a break. Expect most stores to open slightly later and close earlier than usual.

• Countdown / Woolworths: The majority of stores nationwide will be open from 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM until 8:00 PM. Select metro and smaller regional stores may close earlier.

• Pak’nSave: Hours vary significantly by location. Major hubs in Auckland, Hamilton, and Christchurch are expected to run on slightly shortened hours (typically 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM).

• New World: Most locations will be open, but many plan to close their doors by 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM rather than their standard late-night hours.

• SEO Tip: Always check your hyper-local store locator before heading out, as regional owner-operators set their own exact timetables.

2. Will There Be a Public Holiday Surcharge?

If you are popping out for a coffee or dinner over the long weekend, keep an eye on your receipt.

• Supermarkets & Retail: There is no surcharge at supermarkets, department stores, or petrol stations.

• Cafes & Restaurants: Hospitality businesses are legally permitted to charge a 10% to 15% public holiday surcharge on Monday, June 1. This is used to offset the cost of paying staff time-and-a-half and providing an alternative day off.

• The Rule: Cafes must display clear signage warning customers of the surcharge before they order.

3. Shopping Malls and Department Stores

If you are planning some retail therapy or looking to take advantage of the winter sales, main shopping hubs might be operating on a standard Sunday/Public Holiday schedule (usually 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM).

• Westfield Malls (Auckland & Christchurch): Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  Westfield New Zealand

• The Base & Chartwell (Waikato): Open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

  Chartwell Shopping Centre

• Sylvia Park: Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  Sylvia Park

Summary: King’s Birthday 2026 Checklist