Race Relations Day (New Zealand)
Race Relations Day is marked in New Zealand every 21 March, the same day as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
- UK (not marked)
- USA (not marked)
- Ireland (not marked)
- Canada (not marked)
- Australia (not marked)
- New Zealand
- UAE and Gulf (not marked)
- International (not marked)
About the day
Race Relations Day is held on 21 March in New Zealand, the same day as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Communities across the country take part through regional events.
In 2026 the Human Rights Commission launched the day with the theme "Whakarongo Kia Mārama, Listen to Understand". Race Relations Commissioner Dr Melissa Derby described it as a reminder of the country's growing diversity and of the work still needed on relationships between communities.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Sunday 21 March 2027 | New Zealand | Same date every year |
| 2028 | Tuesday 21 March 2028 | New Zealand | Same date every year |
| 2029 | Wednesday 21 March 2029 | New Zealand | Same date every year |
Sectors this day suits
Types of business that could link their activity to this day.
- Schools and universities
- Local councils
- Community groups
- Libraries and museums
- Arts and cultural venues
- Workplaces and HR
- Cafes and restaurants
- Local media
Questions and answers
When is Race Relations Day (New Zealand) 2027?
Race Relations Day (New Zealand) 2027 is on Sunday 21 March 2027. It falls on the same date every year.
Who organises Race Relations Day (New Zealand)?
Race Relations Day (New Zealand) is organised by the Human Rights Commission.
Where is Race Relations Day (New Zealand) marked?
Race Relations Day (New Zealand) is marked in New Zealand.
Where do these details come from?
We checked these details against three sources, including NZHistory: Race Relations Day celebrated. They were last checked on 22 October 2026.
Where this information comes from
- NZHistory: Race Relations Day celebrated
- Bahá'í Community of Aotearoa: Race Relations Day 2026, Whakarongo Kia Mārama
- Waatea News: National Race Relations Day calls on Aotearoa to listen, understand and act
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