The Queen’s coffin in Westminster Abbey during the state funeral service.
Photo: Ben Stansall / POOL / AFP
Legislation paving the way for a public holiday on Monday to mark the death of the Queen has been passed by Parliament under urgency.
It establishes the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Day – a one-off public holiday.
The state memorial service, to be held at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, will be held on the same day.
It will be televised and livestreamed, with the public able to view it on screens set up on the forecourt of Parliament.
Minister for Workplace and Relations and Safety Michael Wood told Parliament the public holiday will allow New Zealanders to mark the late Queen’s life, and reflect on her legacy.
“As Queen of Aotearoa New Zealand, Her Majesty was loved for her grace, calmness, dedication, and public service. Her affection for New Zealand and its people was clear, and it was a fondness that was shared,” he said.
“There will be no additional shop trading restrictions on Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Day public holiday and the normal rules apply for employees who work on a public holiday.
“I encourage employers to familiarise themselves with these ahead of the day.”
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