Northland Anniversary Day — What Is It?

Northland Anniversary Day is a regional public holiday that celebrates Northland's provincial anniversary. Observed on the last Monday of January each year, in 2027 it falls on Monday 25 January. This creates a summer long weekend that is perfect for a Northland getaway — the weather is at its peak, the beaches are glorious, and the whole region is buzzing with summer energy.

Unlike national public holidays, Northland Anniversary Day is specific to the Northland region — meaning businesses and schools in Northland are closed, while residents of other parts of New Zealand may still be working. This makes it a wonderful time to explore Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands without the larger crowds of the Christmas and New Year period.

Northland Anniversary Day 2027

  • Date: Monday 25 January 2027
  • Type: Northland Regional Public Holiday
  • Observed: Last Monday of January each year
  • Previous years: January 27, 2025 / January 26, 2026 / January 25, 2027

What to Do in Kerikeri on Northland Anniversary Day

Northland Anniversary Day falls in the middle of summer — January is the warmest month of the year in Northland, with long sunny days, warm evenings, and sea temperatures perfect for swimming. Here is a guide to making the most of the long weekend in Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands.

Markets & Local Events

  • Kerikeri Farmers Market — Held every Saturday morning, the Kerikeri Farmers Market is a wonderful celebration of local produce, artisan foods, crafts, and community spirit
  • Packhouse Market — The popular artisan market in a converted packhouse, with local art, crafts, food, and coffee
  • Community Events — Local community groups often organise special Anniversary Day activities and gatherings
  • Shopping — Kerikeri's many boutique shops, galleries, and stores offer a wonderful browsing experience

Beach & Water Activities

  • Matauri Bay — One of Northland's most beautiful beaches — golden sand, clear water, and stunning scenery
  • Coopers Beach — A long, sheltered golden sand beach, perfect for families with children
  • Paihia Beach — Swim, sunbathe, or launch a kayak in the heart of the Bay of Islands
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding — Explore the calm bays and inlets of the Bay of Islands by kayak
  • Swimming — The sea temperature in January is at its warmest — perfect for a refreshing swim
  • Fishing — Charter a fishing boat from Paihia or Kerikeri for a memorable Bay of Islands fishing experience

Nature & Outdoor Activities

  • Rainbow Falls — A spectacular and easy walk to one of Northland's most photographed waterfalls, just minutes from Kerikeri
  • Kerikeri Basin & Stone Store — Walk the beautiful Kerikeri River Track through native bush to New Zealand's oldest stone building
  • Puketi Forest — Explore ancient kauri forest on the stunning walking tracks through Puketi
  • Winery Tours — Kerikeri's wineries produce some of Northland's finest wines — a perfect summer afternoon activity
  • Kerikeri Golf Club — Play a round at the beautiful Kerikeri Golf Club set in stunning Northland scenery

Historic & Cultural Sites

  • Waitangi Treaty Grounds — New Zealand's most significant historic site, just 20 minutes from Kerikeri. Cultural performances, waka displays and guided tours
  • Stone Store, Kerikeri — New Zealand's oldest stone building, dating from 1836
  • Kerikeri Mission Station — New Zealand's oldest wooden building and surrounding mission station complex
  • Rewa's Village — A reconstruction of a pre-European Maori village at the Kerikeri Basin
  • Russell — New Zealand's first European settlement, with excellent history, dining, and waterfront charm

Planning Your Northland Anniversary Day Long Weekend

Northland Anniversary Day creates a long weekend opportunity for Northland residents and visitors alike. Paired with the surrounding weekend days, you have three full days to explore the region. Many people use the long weekend for a mid-summer break — heading to the beach, exploring Kerikeri, or spending time on the water in the Bay of Islands.

Accommodation in Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands can book up quickly around Anniversary Day and the broader summer holiday period, so it pays to plan ahead. Kerigold Chalets offers self-contained accommodation in a peaceful orchard setting, perfectly placed for a summer long weekend in Northland.