Queen's Birthday

Queen's Birthday History

Queen's Birthday honors the monarch's birthday. Although the actual birth date of Queen Elizabeth II is April 21, the holiday is typically observed on a designated day in various nations. The observance serves as an opportunity to express gratitude and admiration for the Queen's continuous reign, and also marks the beginning of the winter season when many New Zealanders take advantage of a long weekend getaway.

The tradition of observing Queen's Birthday in New Zealand dates back to 1840 when the nation became a part of the British Empire under the reign of Queen Victoria. Since then, the first Monday of June has been designated as the day to commemorate the reigning monarch's birthday. Queen's Birthday weekend also coincides with the annual release of Honours and Awards in New Zealand, when hundreds of people are recognized for their distinguished service to the nation across various domains.

To celebrate Queen's Birthday, New Zealanders often partake in public events and various outdoor activities. These may include cultural performances, family gatherings, barbecues, and sporting events. Retailers often seize the opportunity to offer special sales and promotions, attracting more customers during the long weekend. The official observance of the Queen's Birthday takes place on the first Monday of June, followed by a gun salute at noon by the New Zealand Army in honour of the Queen.

Queen's Birthday Facts

• Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne on 6 February 1952. She has now been Queen for 72 years.
• On 21 April 2024, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 98th birthday.
• When Queen Elizabeth II relinquishes the throne, her son Prince Charles is in line for succession. His birthday of 14 November will coincide even less with his grandfather's birthday of 3 June. However, when his son, Prince William, ascends the throne, his birthday of 21 June will fall nicely in line with the celebrations.
• The Perth Agreement of 2011 amended royal succession laws which previously gave precedence to male heirs before females. Now, the line of succession is in birth order regardless of gender.
• In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness ... I hope also that this Jubilee year will be a time to give thanks for the great advances that have been made since 1952 and to look forward to the future with clear head and warm heart - Queen Elizabeth II

In the News and Trending for Queen's Birthday

Queen's Birthday Top Things to Do

• Watch a movie about the New Zealand royal family. Some of our suggestions: The Young Victoria (2009), The Madness of King George (1994), The King's Speech (2010) and Lady Jane (1986).
• Spread awareness on social media by using hashtags #queensbirthday, #queenelizabethII, #newzealandroyals and #commonwealth.
• Read a book about New Zealand's history to gain a better understanding of the British colonization that led to present day New Zealand's monarchy and the royal's birthday celebration. Some of our favorites include: The British Colonization of New Zealand, Colonization and Development in New Zealand and The Penguin History of New Zealand.
• Throw a birthday celebration for the Queen. Gather together with your friends and prepare a monarch's meal. Toast to the Queen, to the Commonwealth and to New Zealand.
• Enjoy the long weekend with your family and friends. It is common for families and friends to take short trips on this weekend.