Maximise your leave

Maximise your 2026 annual leave in New Zealand

New Zealand’s 2026 public holidays create 11 long-weekend opportunities — 10 free, 1with a single bridge day. Here’s exactly when to book.

The best long weekends to book in New Zealand, 2026

  • Day after New Year's Day 2026-01-02 (Friday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Waitangi Day 2026-02-06 (Friday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Good Friday 2026-04-03 (Friday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Easter Monday 2026-04-06 (Monday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Anzac Day 2026-04-27 (Monday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • King's Birthday 2026-06-01 (Monday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Matariki 2026-07-10 (Friday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Labour Day 2026-10-26 (Monday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Christmas Day 2026-12-25 (Friday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • Boxing Day 2026-12-28 (Monday). 3 days off for no leave.
  • New Year's Day 2026-01-01 (Thursday). Take 1 leave day for 4 days off.

Get your full optimised year

The plays above are the obvious wins. The planner combines public holidays, weekends and your whole leave budget into the most efficient plan — including the long Easter and Christmas stacks.

Plan your 2026 leave in New Zealand

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