Daylight saving in NZ

In spring, we change our clocks forward 1 hour to New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT). In autumn, we change our clocks back 1 hour to New Zealand Standard Time (NZST).

Daylight saving dates for to

Daylight saving starts each year at on the last Sunday in September, and ends at on the first Sunday in April.

Daylight saving starts (NZDT) Daylight saving ends (NZST)

How to set your clocks

A handy tip is to change your clocks the night before daylight saving starts or ends:

  • In spring — forward 1 hour, for example, from 10pm to 11pm.
  • In autumn — back 1 hour, for example, from 10pm to 9pm.

Some clocks and devices will adjust the time automatically, while others will need you to manually change the time.

Daylight saving reminders

Daylight saving dates and times are widely advertised on the television, radio, local council websites and national newspapers.

In this section

Governing legislation

Our timezone, the daylight saving dates and the rules around what happens if you are working when the clocks change are governed by 2 pieces of legislation.

History of daylight saving in NZ

New Zealand first introduced daylight saving time in 1927. The current times have been fixed since 2007.

Public attitudes to daylight saving

The 2008 survey found that 82% of New Zealanders approved of the 2007 extension to the period of daylight saving time.

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

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