Day After New Year's Day in New Zealand
2 January, which is literally the Day After New Year's Day, is a public holiday in New Zealand. For locals this day is a gentle extension of the summer holiday period - a time for beach visits, relaxed community events, markets and family catch-ups. For visitors it is a useful day to experience local life outside the New Year's Eve crowds.
Day After New Year's Day - Dates
This year
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day After New Year's Day | Thu, 2 Jan 2025 | Public holiday |  Add |
Next year
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day After New Year's Day | Fri, 2 Jan 2026 | Public holiday | Add |
Last year
| Name | Date | Holiday Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day After New Year's Day | Tue, 2 Jan 2024 | Public holiday | Add |
Are Businesses Closed?
Day after New Year's Day is a public holiday. Most businesses and offices are closed.
Are Schools Closed?
Schools are closed throughout the Christmas and New Year. This period is included in the summer school holidays in New Zealand. Schools open with their new term only at the end of January or early February.
Why 2 January matters to locals
Unlike a single-day holiday that signals a formal return to work, the Day after New Year's Day is part of a longer holiday rhythm in New Zealand. Schools, many offices and public services usually remain closed, giving families a low-pressure day to recover from the New Year's Eve rush and to enjoy summer activities without the bigger crowds. For communities the day often includes small-scale events such as markets, surf-club breakfasts and charity swims.
It's a similar practice as the 2nd January holiday in Scotland. One extra day to relax would always be appreciated.
Common ways Kiwis spend the day
Beaches, lakes and the "first swim"
Many people head to beaches and lakes. Community clubs sometimes run an organised "first swim" or New Year dip which is social, family-friendly and often linked to fundraising. These events give a sense of ritual and renewal at the start of the year.
Markets and small festivals
Farmers' markets, artisanal markets and pop-up food stalls often run across the holiday week and continue on 2 January. They are a good place to sample local food, crafts and relaxed live music.
Short regional escapes
Because the holiday period stretches across several days, many families use 2 January for short regional trips - exploring nearby national parks, bays and heritage towns while avoiding the busiest New Year's Eve hubs.
Volunteering and community projects
Some communities run volunteer activities on or around 2 January - for example, beach clean-ups after large public events, or surf-life-saver rosters. This is a meaningful way to give back and is a local habit in several coastal towns.
Practical tips for locals and visitors
- Check which services are closed - many council offices, banks and GP clinics are closed on public holidays; local pharmacies sometimes run reduced hours.
- Book early for popular breakfast spots and boat cruises - 2 January can still be busy in holiday towns.
- Bring sun protection and water for long outdoor gatherings - New Zealand summer sun is strong even on overcast days.
- Volunteer for a post-event clean-up or check local surf-life-saving rosters if you want a meaningful way to give back on 2 January.
FAQ
Is 2 January a public holiday in New Zealand?
Yes. The Day after New Year's Day (2 January) is a national public holiday in New Zealand.
What is open on 2 January?
Many shops, tourist attractions and hospitality venues operate on reduced or holiday hours. Essential services and emergency departments remain open, but GP clinics and some public services may be closed. Check local council and business pages before you travel.