Canterbury Anniversary Day

Canterbury Anniversary Day History

Canterbury Anniversary Day commemorates the founding of the Canterbury province in New Zealand, which played a pivotal role in the country's development. The observance's purpose is to strengthen regional pride and celebrate its unique cultural and historical contributions. Not only does this day honour the settlers and their arduous journey to establish a new home, but it also serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination inherent in New Zealanders.

The origins of Canterbury Anniversary Day date back to the arrival of the first four ships – the Randolph, the Charlotte Jane, the Sir George Seymour, and the Cressy – which brought English settlers to the shores of Lyttelton in 1850. These colonists, known as the Canterbury Pilgrims, played a critical role in shaping the region's development. With a history steeped in agricultural growth and the establishment of key infrastructure like the Christchurch-Lyttelton railway tunnel, the Canterbury province has evolved into a vibrant, diverse locale that enriches New Zealand's cultural fabric.

Canterbury Anniversary Day is observed with various events and celebrations throughout the province. The primary attraction is the New Zealand Agricultural Show in Christchurch, drawing thousands of visitors for a showcase of the region's farming and agricultural heritage. Other community events include local markets, performances and family-friendly activities. Canterbury Anniversary Day always falls on the second Friday in November.

Canterbury Anniversary Day Facts

• As with all other provinces, the Canterbury province was abolished in 1876. However, the names of the provinces (now known as provincial districts) are still used to refer to more or less the same regions. Moreover, under the New Zealand Holiday Act of 1981, each region is to select a date as a public holiday to commemorate the anniversary of the province.
• Christchurch Show Day is the Friday of the Cup and Show Week, which is South Island's biggest festival in Spring. By moving Canterbury Anniversary to this date, the day became a public holiday according to the Holiday Act of 1981.
• Canterbury is closely associated with the story of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was murdered in the cathedral in 1170. His death led to the cathedral becoming a major pilgrimage site in medieval Europe, and it is still visited by millions of pilgrims and tourists today.
• Canterbury has a rich history dating back to the Roman period when it was known as Durovernum Cantiacorum. The city grew in importance during the Roman Empire and later became the center of the Christian Church in England during the early medieval period.

In the News and Trending for Canterbury Anniversary Day

Canterbury Anniversary Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit the highly-rated Geraldine Observatory. It is privately owned by Peter Aldous and features a wide array of telescopes and other astronomy equipment.
• Visit the Blean Woods National Nature Reserve. Enjoy the wildlife on foot or bicycle. You can also ride horses.
• Go for a leisurely punt on the Avon River. It's a uniquely Christchurch experience that you won't want to miss.
• The Canterbury Museum in Christchurch is worth visiting to learn about the history of Canterbury. The museum houses a fantastic collection of Maori artefacts, natural history, and early Antarctic exploration items.