New Zealand is a beautiful country known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and world-class education system. For students in New Zealand, knowing the school terms and public holidays is essential to plan for their academic year and vacations. This article will discuss the NZ School Terms & Public Holidays 2023.
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NZ School Terms & Public Holidays 2023
School Terms 2023
The academic year in New Zealand is divided into four terms, each lasting about ten weeks. The school terms for the year 2023 are:
- Term 1: Monday 30th January – Friday 7th April
- Term 2: Monday 1st May – Friday 7th July
- Term 3: Monday 24th-July – Friday 29th-September
- Term 4: Monday 16th-October – Wednesday 20th-December
The school term dates may vary slightly for each school, and it is recommended to check with the respective school for any changes.
Term 1 (30th January – 7th April)
Term 1 marks the beginning of the academic year for students in New Zealand. It is an exciting time for students as they embark on a new academic journey and meet new friends. The term lasts for ten weeks and includes a one-week break in the middle for the Easter holidays. This is a good time for students to recharge and spend quality time with their families.
Term 2 (1st May – 7th July)
Term 2 starts in May and lasts for ten weeks. This term includes a one-week break in the middle for the Queen’s Birthday holiday, which falls on Monday, 5th June 2023. Students can use this time to catch up on their studies or indulge their favorite hobbies.
Term 3 (24th July – 29th September)
Term 3 starts in July and lasts for ten weeks. This term includes a two-week break in the middle of the school holidays. Students can use this time to travel with their families or participate in sports and other extracurricular activities.
Term 4 (16th October – 20th December)
Term 4 starts in October and lasts nine weeks, with the academic year ending just before Christmas. This term includes a one-week break in the middle of the Labour Day holiday, which falls on Monday, 23rd October 2023. Students can use this time to prepare for their end-of-year exams or enjoy the festive season with their families.
Public Holidays 2023
Apart from the school terms, students in New Zealand can also look forward to several public holidays throughout the year. Always holidays are a great time for students to take a vacation from schoolwork and spend time with their loved ones. The public holidays for the year 2023 in New Zealand are:
- New Year’s Day: Sunday, 1st January 2023
- Day after New Year’s Day: Monday, 2nd January 2023
- Waitangi Day: Monday, 6th February 2023
- Good Friday: Friday, 31st March 2023
- Easter Monday: Monday, 3rd April 2023
- Anzac Day: Tuesday, 25th April 2023
- Queen’s Birthday: Monday, 5th June 2023
- Labour Day: Monday, 23rd October 2023
- Christmas Day: Monday, 25th December 2023
- Boxing Day: Tuesday, 26th December 2023
Waitangi Day (6th February 2023)
Waitangi Day is a significant public holiday in New Zealand that commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on 6th February 1840. This treaty was signed between the British Crown and more than 500 Maori chiefs, establishing a partnership between the two parties and recognizing Maori ownership of their lands, forests, and fisheries.
Waitangi Day is a unique and vital day in New Zealand’s history, marking the beginning of a bicultural nation where Maori and Pakeha (non-Maori) coexist harmoniously. On this day, people from all over the country gather to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of Maori culture to New Zealand society.
Various activities, including speeches, music, cultural performances, and traditional Maori games, mark the day. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands is one of the most significant places to visit today, as it is where the treaty was signed. It is a common and popular destination for locals and tourists who learn about the country’s history and culture.
Many schools across New Zealand hold special events and activities to commemorate Waitangi Day, teaching students mainly about the history and significance of the day. This helps to promote cultural understanding and respect, building strong and inclusive communities.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Waitangi Day is a significant public holiday in New Zealand that commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, establishing a partnership between the British Crown and Maori chiefs. The day is an opportunity for people in New Zealand to celebrate the country’s unique bicultural identity, acknowledging the contributions of Maori culture to New Zealand society. It is a day of reflection, remembrance, and celebration, bringing people together and promoting cultural understanding and respect.
