Background
The Matariki refers to a large cluster of stars that mark the changing of the seasons and the beginning of the Maori new year. The Maori were the first settlers in New Zealand and have developed their own tradition, language, and religion.
Key details
The additional holiday will fall on the Friday closest to the Tangaroa lunar phase, which is when the last quarter moon rises, typically falling between June and July each year. Since the exact timing of Matariki shifts each year, the New Zealand government set the new public holiday date for the next 30 years until 2052. For the next three years, the holiday will take place 14 July 2023, 28 June 2024, and 20 June 2025.
Next steps
Employers may need to update their leave policies to reflect the additional public holiday.