New Zealand, along with other commonwealth nations, will mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II with a one-day public holiday. New Zealand’s public holiday will take place on Monday, September 26.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also confirmed that a State Memorial Service for Queen Elizabeth II will take place in Wellington Cathedral of St Paul on September 26. Additionally, the marking of a historic event will be televised.
Prime Minister Ardern stated: “As New Zealand’s Queen and much-loved Sovereign for over 70 years, it is appropriate that we mark her life of dedicated public service with a State Memorial Service and a one-off public holiday.”
She continued by saying the Queen was an ”extraordinary person” and many New Zealanders would want to mark her death and celebrate her life.
Ardern also confirmed that she will attend the funeral of the late Queen in the United Kingdom on September 19, alongside the Governor General. The funeral will be held in London with the monarch being laid to rest at Windsor Castle next to her husband of 73 years, Prince Philip, who died in 2021.
Read more about how to pay your respects to Queen Elizabeth II in New Zealand.