Father’s Day in New Zealand 2025: A Celebration of Kiwi Dads

When is Father’s Day 2025 in New Zealand?

Father’s Day in New Zealand falls on Sunday, 7 September 2025. Unlike many other countries, New Zealand celebrates Father’s Day on the first Sunday of September. While it’s not a public holiday, it is widely observed throughout the country.

History and Significance

The celebration of Father’s Day in New Zealand dates back to 1929, when it was first observed at St. Matthew’s Church in Auckland. What began as a modest celebration with heartfelt sermons and community praise evolved into a commercial event by the 1930s, with the first September-dated Father’s Day advertisement appearing in Wellington in 1937.

The selection of September for Father’s Day in Australia and New Zealand began in the mid-1930s, and was officially designated as the first Sunday in September across the Commonwealth in 1964. The date was specifically chosen for commercial reasons to separate it from other celebrations.

Modern Celebrations and Traditions

Kiwi families celebrate Father’s Day with various traditions, including breakfast in bed, handmade cards, backyard BBQs, and outdoor adventures. In Māori families, the day holds special significance with traditions emphasizing mana (authority), whānau (family unity), and aroha (love), often including haka performances, special karakia (prayers), and shared feasts.

The day is an opportunity for people to show their appreciation not only for fathers but also father figures, including stepfathers, fathers-in-law, guardians, foster parents, and family friends.

2025 Activities and Events

For Father’s Day 2025, Auckland is planning a diverse range of cultural events, including performances by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and various theatre productions – many of which are perfect for a Father’s Day outing.

Across New Zealand, fathers and father figures can enjoy a variety of top-tier activities. The day serves as a special occasion to recognize all dads and celebrate the unique bond between children and their fathers, providing an opportunity to show appreciation for everything fathers do for their families.