In 2026, Easter Sunday will be observed on 5 April. This date is determined as the first Sunday after the first full moon (the Paschal Full Moon) following the March equinox.

In New Zealand, the Easter period includes several public holidays: Good Friday: 3rd April, Easter Sunday: 5th April, and Easter Monday: 6th April.

These dates provide us with a long weekend, often used for family gatherings, attending religious services, or participating in traditional activities such as Easter egg hunts. Bookmark our 2026 Teacher Calendar for term dates, school holidays and more.

Yes, Easter hops around! Easter falls on a different date each year because it is based on the lunar calendar. Sometimes it falls at the end of March, sometimes in late April. It’s celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the March equinox. This means Easter can fall anywhere between 22nd March and 25th April.

Easter is a Christian festival that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, as described in the Bible. It is the most important event in the Christian calendar and symbolises hope, renewal and new life. How do people celebrate Easter? People celebrate Easter in various ways, including religious services, Easter egg hunts, family gatherings and enjoying the long weekend. Many people also go camping or take trips as the holiday often coincides with school holidays.

Easter has been celebrated since the early days of Christianity, with its origins dating back to at least the 2nd century AD. Many Easter traditions, such as egg-giving, have roots in ancient pagan spring festivals that symbolised fertility and renewal.

Easter eggs symbolise new life and rebirth. The tradition of decorating eggs dates back centuries and was adopted by Christians to represent Jesus’ resurrection. Today, chocolate eggs are the most popular way to celebrate, with many families taking part in Easter egg hunts.

The Cross

The cross is the most important symbol of Easter, representing Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. It serves as a reminder of His sacrifice and victory over sin and death.

Easter eggs

Easter eggs represent new life and rebirth, symbolising Jesus' resurrection. The tradition of decorating eggs dates back to early Christians who would dye eggs red to symbolise Christ’s blood. Today, chocolate eggs are a fun and popular way to celebrate Easter.

Easter Bunny

Although not originally a Christian symbol, the Easter Bunny has become an important part of Easter celebrations. The rabbit is a symbol of fertility and new life, fitting with the themes of Easter.

Easter chicks

Easter chicks are a symbol of new life, renewal and fertility, closely tied to the themes of Easter and spring. As baby chickens hatch from eggs, they are often associated with new beginnings. Easter decorations and crafts frequently include fluffy yellow chicks, and they are a popular motif in greeting cards and Easter baskets.

Easter baskets

Speaking of Easter baskets, these are used to collect Easter eggs during egg hunts and are often filled with chocolate, sweets or small gifts. Traditionally, they symbolise abundance and generosity, reflecting the joy of Easter. Many families also create decorative Easter baskets, adding ribbons, flowers or personalised touches to make them extra special.

Hot cross buns

These spiced buns, traditionally eaten on Good Friday, feature a cross on top, symbolising the crucifixion of Jesus. The spices in the buns are said to represent the spices used to embalm Jesus’ body.

Easter lilies

White lilies are often associated with Easter as a symbol of purity, hope, and resurrection. They are commonly displayed in churches and homes during the Easter season.

Butterflies

The butterfly is sometimes used as an Easter symbol because its life cycle (caterpillar, cocoon and butterfly) represents Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection.

Candles

Candles play an important role in Easter celebrations, symbolising light, hope, and Jesus’ resurrection. Many churches hold candlelit services during Easter, representing Christ as the Light of the World. Candles are also often used in homes as part of Easter decorations, creating a warm and reflective atmosphere.

The Easter Bunny is a popular symbol of Easter, believed to bring and hide eggs for children. The tradition originated in Germany and was brought to other countries by European settlers. Rabbits are associated with fertility and new life, fitting the themes of Easter.

Traditional Easter foods in New Zealand include:

Hot cross buns

Sweet, spiced buns with a cross on top, usually eaten on Good Friday.

Easter eggs and chocolate treats

Widely enjoyed over the holiday.

Seafood

The preferred food on Good Friday.

Roast lamb or seafood

Popular choices for Easter Sunday lunch.