It’s only two weeks into 2025 and we’re already looking forward to getting some time off.
With many of us heading back to work this week and itching to plan a getaway, we’ve come up with a plan to maximise that downtime and stretch out your annual leave.
So, while I managed to let this “research” slide with the boss - definitely for your benefit and not my own - let me tell you how to lock in some EXTRA long weekends in 2025.
WAITANGI DAY
Public Holiday: Thursday, February 6th
Take one day off on Friday, February 7th, to take advantage of a four-day weekend.
If you live in Nelson, Monday, February 3rd is also a public holiday for you lot. If you want to play a smart move, take the 4th, 5th and 7th to get nine days off for the cost of three.
EASTER WEEKEND
Public Holiday: Good Friday, April 18th and Easter Monday, April 21st
Take four days of annual leave before or after this weekend, and you’ll score yourself a full 10-day holiday.
Southland, with your Anniversary Day falling on Tuesday, April 22nd, you’re already set for a sweet 5-day break. But why stop there? Use the strategy above and take just 3 days of annual leave to turn it into a full 10-day getaway.
ANZAC DAY
Public Holiday: Friday, April 25th
Use one day of annual leave on Monday, April 28th to grab an extra long four-day weekend.
KINGS BIRTHDAY
Public Holiday: Monday, June 2nd
Take Friday, May 30th off for an extended King's Birthday weekend and head away for 4 days.
MATARIKI
Public holiday: Friday, June 20th
Using 4 days annual leave on Monday 16th - Thursday 19th June means you can take the whole week off for a little mid-year relaxation.
LABOUR DAY
Public Holiday: Monday, October 27th
You know how to suss this one, taking Friday the 24th will get you another extended long weekend.
If you’re in Hawke’s Bay, you’re all set! With your Anniversary Day landing on Friday, you’ve got a four-day holiday sorted without lifting a finger.
Marlborough you can do one better - or six… Your anniversary is November 3rd so taking four days between Tuesday, October 28th - Friday, 31st will have you planning a 10-day holiday getaway.
CHRISTMAS AND BOXING DAY
Public holidays: Thursday 25th, Friday 26th December
Christmas and Boxing Day are delivering a handy four-day weekend this year.
But if you want to stretch that out into 2026, take three days of annual leave on those days between Xmas and New Year's to score the longest break for 11 days and head into the New Year feeling fresh - or at least recovered.
And just like that, it’s 2026! With these savvy tips, you’re on track for a much-needed break. Just make sure you’re quick with it before your coworkers grab those days off first!
