New Zealand Christmas History
Because of the International Dateline, New Zealand is the first country in the world to celebrate Christmas Day. Its discoverer, Dutchman Abel Tasman, and his crew celebrated it off the coast of New Zealand's North Island in 1642.
Captain Cook
English explorer Captain Cook, who circumnavigated New Zealand in 1769, celebrated with a pie made from captured seabirds (gannets).
Mass
In 1769, French explorer Jean de Surville's Dominican chaplain probably said mass in Doubtless Bay, at the top of the North Island, though no records exist. The French made no attempt to evangelize the native Maori.
Sermon
Anglican missionary Samuel Marsden preached the first sermon in New Zealand on Christmas Day 1814, with the help of a native Maori translator. Marsden's message was "Behold I bring you tidings of great joy."
Holiday
A day off work for Christmas was customary from the arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century, but was not confirmed into law until 1910.
Summer break
The day after Christmas Day, Boxing Day, is also a public holiday. New Year's Day and January 2 are public holidays, making a long Christmas/summer break common for New Zealanders.
Tags: Zealand Christmas, Captain Cook, Christmas History, native Maori, North Island, Zealand Christmas History