Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day is an observance typically involving gift-giving and aiding the needy. The holiday has roots in British culture, as well as many other aspects from former British colonies and territories. It serves as a day of relaxation, family gatherings, feasting, and continued Christmas celebrations, while also providing an opportunity to donate to charitable causes.

The origins of Boxing Day are said to have started in the United Kingdom during the Middle Ages, where boxes of food, clothing, and other essentials were given to servants and the poor as a form of appreciation on the Feast of Saint Stephen. New Zealand, part of the British Commonwealth, also became one of the main countries to celebrate Boxing Day. The day is considered a public holiday in New Zealand, marked by various traditions that include spending time with family and friends, enjoying outdoor activities, and shopping sales. The holiday is seen as an opportunity to give back to the community through charitable donations and acts of kindness.

In New Zealand, Boxing Day is observed on December 26th each year, which can fall on a different day depending on the country's time zone difference compared to the United Kingdom. It is a day filled with festivities, from outdoor picnics and barbecues to attending cricket matches, horse racing, and yacht races like the prestigious Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Many retail stores also offer significant discounts for their Boxing Day sales, drawing in large crowds who seek to extend their holiday celebrations and browse the available bargains.

Top facts about Boxing Day

• 26 December is also St Stephen’s Day; commemorating the first Christian martyr Saint Stephen. According to the Acts of the Apostles Stephen was a deacon accused of blasphemy for his teachings. He was stoned to death and is now venerated as a saint in the Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox churches.
• Boxing Day is one of the 6 bank holidays in the UK. The others are Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter, Whit Monday and the August Bank Holiday.
• The Maori celebrated a similar occasion called Humarie or the day of rest, which took place the day after a significant feast day.
• Boxing Day is also the day when the popular Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race begins.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Boxing Day

Boxing Day Top Things to Do

• Watch some sport! There is top-tier football and rugby throughout the weekend and in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa cricket Test matches begin. The King George VI Chase, a horse race at Kempton Park also runs; it is known as the 2nd most prestigious race in the calendar.
• In the UK, it is tradition to take a walk in the crisp winter air and enjoy the outdoors. If you happen to be in the UK try the Snowdonia range (Wales), the Lake District (northern England), the Peak District (the English Midlands) or just round the local streets. You’ve probably eaten a lot over the last few days, so maybe go easy.
• With sandy beaches and a number of vineyards, Waiheke Island is a great place to relax after Christmas hustle.
• The many geothermal hot springs found in places like Rotorua or Hanmer Springs are ideal for a peaceful day.