Labour Day Celebrated in New Zealand – October 25

 

 

Labour Day Celebrated in New Zealand

Labour Day in New Zealand is a public holiday.

Labour Day Date: October 25

Labour Day is a public holiday in New Zealand.

 

 

In New Zealand, Labour Day commemorated the establishment of the standard eight-hour workday in 1840. It is held annually on the fourth Monday in October, which falls on October 26, 2009.

Great historical article: http://www.jobsletter.org.nz/jbl19510.htm

 

History of New Zealand’s Labour Day

New Zealand’s workers were among the first in the world to claim the right to an eight-hour workday. The movement toward an eight-hour workday arose in Wellington colony in 1840, where carpenter Samuel Parnell refused to work more than eight hours a day. He encouraged other tradesman to limit their workday to eight hours, resulting in a workers’ meeting resolution being passed in support.

On October 28, 1890, there was a parade held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the eight-hour workday. In celebration, many trade union members attended parades in cities, and government employees were given the day off. The parade began to be held annually in late October as either Labour Day or Eight-Hour Demonstration Day. In 1899, the government passed legislation to establish Labour Day as a public holiday beginning in 1900. In 1910, the government set the holiday on the last Monday of October, to be observed on the same day throughout the nation.

 

New Zealand Labour Day Traditions, Customs and Activities

 

New Zealand’s Labour Day celebration is marked by parades in some cities. However, many New Zealanders now regard Labour Day as simply a day off from work. Government buildings and many businesses are closed for the holiday.

 

A Celebration of Women

sends our blessings and love to all the Women of our World

in New Zealand.

 

Celebrate Labor Day!

Copyright 2022 @ A Celebration of Women™ The World Hub for Women Leaders That Care