Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day History

Valentine's Day is a day for everyone express their love towards their significant others, friends, or family. This celebration involves the exchange of sentimental gifts like flowers, chocolates, or handwritten notes, known as "valentines". Valentine's Day is not a public holiday but has gained considerable importance due to the universally shared sentiment and tradition of expressing love.

The history of Valentine's Day dates back to ancient Rome and its modern observance has been influenced by various cultural practices. In relation to New Zealand, the day became popular after World War II when Kiwi soldiers returned from overseas with tales of romantic notions and observed traditions. Since then, this day has become an integral part of the New Zealand social calendar, observed by people across different age groups and varied social backgrounds.

On Valentine's Day in New Zealand, loved ones share intimate dinners, sunset beach walks, or indulge in unique experiences like stargazing, sailing or wine tasting. Many individuals choose to express their feelings through the classic romantic gestures like sending flowers, cards, or arranging a special day out. Importantly, gestures of friendship and love are expressed among school children, seniors, and communities as well., It's a day when 'Aroha' (the Maori word for love) is celebrated in all its forms. Valentine's Day is observed on the same day, February 14th.

Top 8 Facts for 2026 Valentine's Day in NZ

• The ITM New Zealand Sail Grand Prix is set to transform Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter into a global sporting hub over the Valentine's Day weekend, featuring high-speed F50 catamarans and a purpose-built grandstand for thousands of spectators.
• Moviegoers can celebrate the day with the highly anticipated international release of Emerald Fennell's bold reimagining of Wuthering Heights, which stars Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi and features original music by Charli XCX.
• The upcoming observance coincides with the favorable peak of the Alpha Centaurids meteor shower, making noctourism or stargazing in dark-sky reserves like Lake Tekapo a particularly timely romantic activity due to the absence of moonlight.
• Fans of local music have been securing tickets for the SIX60 album release concert, Right Here Right Now, which takes place at the Te Paepae Theatre in Auckland on the eve of Valentine’s Day.
• This year marks a significant cultural milestone as the Splore Festival at Tāpapakanga Regional Park, known for its immersive art and "greatest costume party" reputation, prepares for its final ever installment just one week after the romantic observance.
• Instead of traditional imported roses, New Zealanders are increasingly favoring locally grown seasonal blooms such as dahlias, hydrangeas, and sunflowers, which are at their peak across the country during the month of February.
• The Napier Art Deco Festival kicks off shortly after the day of romance, offering couples a chance to extend their celebrations with vintage car tours and world-class jazz performances in the Hawke's Bay region.
• For those seeking interactive experiences, "Paint & Sip" sessions and pottery workshops like the Valentine's Mug Handbuilding Workshop in Auckland have become staple alternatives to the classic candlelit dinner.

In the News and Trending in NZ for Valentine's Day

Top things to do in NZ for Valentine's Day

• Send someone you care for a Valentine's Day card. Take the time to write a small note or love poem inside. Sign it, from your Valentine.
• Remember other important people in your life, such as your parents, grandparents and old friends. Send them a small card or gift to remind them of how much you care.
• Visit the Vineyards: Celebrate Valentine's Day in Marlborough or Hawke's Bay by sampling some of the world's best wines set in scenic vineyards.
• Valentine's Day Cruise in Auckland: Enjoy a romantic dinner and dance on a cruise while you sail around the Auckland harbor with stunning views of the city, sea and sky.