King’s Birthday 2026: What’s open, who gets honoured and why New Zealand has a day off

Explainer: For many Pacific families across Aotearoa New Zealand, the King's Birthday means an extra day to spend with loved ones, head to church, catch up with friends or simply enjoy a well-earned break.

The public holiday falls on Monday 1 June even though King Charles III's actual birthday is not until November.

So what does the day mean, what's open, and how are people chosen for the King's Honours List?

Will I get the day off?

For most workers, Monday is a public holiday. But some people will still be required to work depending on their job and employer.

Employees who work on a public holiday must be paid at least time-and-a-half. If the day would normally be a working day for them, they are also entitled to a paid day off later.

Self-employed people and contractors do not automatically receive those benefits although they may choose to take the day off.

Unlike Easter, Christmas Day, and the morning of Anzac Day, there are no special trading restrictions on King's Birthday.

Many shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes can open as normal but some businesses may operate on reduced hours.

King Charles III celebrates his official birthday in June as part of a long-standing tradition despite his actual birthday falling on 14 November. Photo/media pool/file

What about public holiday surcharges?

If you're planning to grab a coffee or take the family out for a meal, don't be surprised if there's a surcharge.

Many businesses add a public holiday fee to help cover higher wage costs. Surcharges are usually around 15 per cent.

Businesses must clearly tell customers if a surcharge applies. It should not appear unexpectedly on the final bill.

Who gets a King's Birthday Honour?

The King's Birthday Honours recognise New Zealanders who have made outstanding contributions to their communities, professions or the country.

The honours are announced twice each year: at New Year and on King's Birthday.

Past honour recipients have included people recognised for decades of service to their communities including Pacific leaders and volunteers.

In 2024, the King's Birthday Honours recognised Pacific people who made significant contributions to their communities, professions and Aotearoa. From top left (clockwise): Reverend Taimoanaifakaofo Kaio, Frances Mary Latu Oakes (JP), Maituteau Karora, Anapela Polataivao, Dr David Telfer Robie, Leitualaalemalietoa Lynn Lolokini Pavihi, Tupuna Mataki Kaiaruna, Mailigi Hetutū and Bridget Piu Kauraka. The 2026 honours recipients will be announced on Monday 1 June. Photo/Supplied

Can anyone be nominated?

Yes. Anyone can nominate a living person they believe deserves recognition through the New Zealand Royal Honours system.

The Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet receives hundreds of nominations every year.

"The unit prepares a draft citation for each one based on the information in the nomination and letters of support," it has said previously.

The Cabinet Appointments and Honours Committee considers nominations before recommendations are made to the Prime Minister, who then advises the King.

"As chair of the APH committee and the King's primary advisor on honours matters, the prime minister advises the King on the final honours lists," Blair Teesdale-Moore said in a statement.

"By long-standing constitutional convention, the King of New Zealand acts on the advice of the prime minister. This includes the formal approval of New Zealand Royal honours."

Why is King's Birthday in June?

King Charles III was born on 14 November so the timing can seem a little confusing.

The tradition comes from Britain where the monarch's official birthday is celebrated during the northern hemisphere summer when conditions are more suitable for major outdoor ceremonies.

The annual Trooping the Colour military parade has become the official birthday celebration for the reigning monarch, regardless of when they were actually born.

This year's Trooping the Colour will be held in London on 13 June.

So while the King's real birthday is still months away, New Zealanders can enjoy the long weekend now.