Monday 27th October 2025 Labour Day commemorates the eight-hour working day initiated by the labour union movement over a century ago. Labour Day is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed. What Do People Do? Labour Day is a public holiday so many workers in New Zealand take the time off to relax and enjoy their spare time. It is on a Monday, so some people make the most of the long weekend by going on short trips out of town. Street parades and protest marches to voice out the importance of workers' rights are also held on or around Labour Day Public Life Labour Day is a public holiday in New Zealand. Schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed. Background During the 19th century, workers in New Zealand tried to claim the right for an 8-hour working day. In 1840 carpenter Samuel Parnell fought for this right in Wellington, NZ, and won. Labour Day was first celebrated in New Zealand on October 28, 1890, when thousands of workers paraded in the main city centres. Government employees were given the day off to attend the parades and many businesses closed for at least part of the day. It is celebrated on the fourth Monday in October.