Black Friday in New Zealand
Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping events in New Zealand. Shoppers take this opportunity to purchase their favourite brands on significantly discounted price.
Black Friday - Dates
This year (2026)
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Friday | Friday, 27 Nov 2026 | Observance |  |
Next year (2027)
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Friday | Friday, 26 Nov 2027 | Observance | |
Last year (2025)
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Friday | Friday, 28 Nov 2025 | Observance | |
Originally an American shopping tradition, Black Friday has become an important part of New Zealand's retail calendar. Many major New Zealand retailers and international online stores now participate, offering special promotions both online and in physical shops. It is also a popular opportunity for Kiwis to get their Christmas shopping done early and save money on larger purchases.
When Is Black Friday in New Zealand?
Black Friday takes place on the next Friday after the Thanksgiving in the United States. As the Thanksgiving falls on fourth Thursday of November, Black Friday is observed on the following Friday.
Is Black Friday a Public Holiday in New Zealand?
No. Black Friday is not a public holiday in New Zealand. It is a commercial shopping event rather than an official holiday. Schools, government offices and most businesses operate as usual, although some retailers may extend their opening hours or offer special shopping promotions.
How Did Black Friday Become Popular in New Zealand?
Black Friday was not traditionally part of New Zealand's shopping culture. However, the growth of international online shopping and the popularity of major American retailers gradually introduced the event to Kiwi consumers.
New Zealand retailers began adopting Black Friday promotions during the 2010s, with electronics and technology retailers among the early participants. Today, the event has become a major opportunity for businesses to attract customers before Christmas.
According to Retail NZ's 2026 retail industry research, Black Friday was the most popular major sales event among retailers surveyed, with 43% planning to participate. This highlights how firmly the event has become established in the New Zealand retail calendar.
Popular Black Friday Retailers in New Zealand
Many well-known New Zealand retailers participate in Black Friday, offering discounts across different product categories. Some popular stores to look out for include:
- PB Tech: Computers, laptops, smartphones, gaming equipment and electronics.
- Noel Leeming: TVs, home appliances, computers and consumer electronics.
- The Warehouse: Clothing, toys, homewares, furniture and everyday essentials.
- JB Hi-Fi: Electronics, televisions, headphones, gaming consoles and entertainment products.
- Harvey Norman: Furniture, computers, mattresses and household appliances.
- Farmers: Fashion, beauty, fragrances, homewares and toys.
- Briscoes: Kitchenware, bedding, home appliances and household products.
- Mighty Ape: Gaming, toys, books, electronics and entertainment products.
International retailers such as Amazon and eBay may also offer Black Friday promotions to New Zealand shoppers. Individual offers and retailer participation vary each year.
What Are the Best Things to Buy During Black Friday?
Black Friday covers a wide range of shopping categories. Some of the most popular products among New Zealand shoppers include:
- Electronics: Televisions, laptops, smartphones, tablets, headphones and gaming equipment.
- Home appliances: Refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners and kitchen appliances.
- Fashion: Clothing, footwear, handbags and accessories.
- Beauty: Skincare, cosmetics, fragrances and personal care products.
- Home and furniture: Mattresses, sofas, bedding, furniture and home decorations.
- Toys and gifts: Children's toys, books, games and Christmas presents.
- Outdoor products: Camping equipment, garden furniture, barbecues and summer accessories.
As Black Friday takes place just before the New Zealand summer and Christmas holidays, it can be a convenient time to purchase gifts, travel accessories and outdoor equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Friday a public holiday?
No. Black Friday is not a public holiday in New Zealand. Schools, businesses and government offices generally operate as usual.
Does New Zealand celebrate Thanksgiving?
No. Thanksgiving is not a national holiday in New Zealand. However, New Zealand retailers follow the American Thanksgiving calendar when setting the date for Black Friday sales.
How long do Black Friday sales last?
Many New Zealand retailers run Black Friday promotions for several days or even weeks. Sales often begin before the official Friday and continue through the weekend until Cyber Monday.
Is Black Friday bigger than Boxing Day sales?
Black Friday has become one of New Zealand's biggest annual shopping events, competing with the traditional Boxing Day sales. Which event offers better deals depends on the retailer and product category.
What is Cyber Monday?
Cyber Monday is an online shopping event held on the Monday following Black Friday. Many New Zealand retailers use it to extend their sales or introduce additional online promotions.