Labour Day in New Zealand exists to acknowledge the historic struggle for fair, reasonable working hours and to celebrate workers’ contributions. It has a specific origins and an established date each year, forming a long weekend for many people. Key points
- Origins: The idea traces back to the eight-hour day movement. Samuel Parnell, a Wellington carpenter, is credited with insisting on an eight-hour workday in 1840, demonstrating that work could be limited to eight hours a day and still be productive. This early insistence helped spark wider pushes for shorter hours among tradespeople and workers [NZ history sources documenting the eight-hour day origin and Parnell's role].
- First celebrations: Labour Day was first celebrated in 1890 as a demonstration and parade by thousands of workers to mark and advocate for the eight-hour day. Government employees were among those given the day off, and parades in major centers became a hallmark of the celebration [NZHistory and related historical summaries].
- Official public holiday: In 1899, Labour Day was formalized in law, establishing a statutory public holiday on a set October date. The timing shifted from the second Wednesday of October to the fourth Monday in October during the early 20th century to create a long weekend [historical record from government and heritage sources].
- Modern observance: Today, Labour Day is observed on the fourth Monday in October. It is a public holiday meant to honour workers and their achievements, while also providing a long weekend for rest, recreation, and family time [current observance details from official sources and public-facing calendars].
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