Hawke’s Bay Anniversary Day is observed in the former historic province of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, on the Friday before Labour Day, which is the fourth Monday in October. This holiday commemorates the separation of the Hawke’s Bay Province from the Wellington Province in 1858. The province was named after Hawke Bay, named for Sir Edward Hawke, and was established following a meeting in Napier where residents petitioned for local governance due to dissatisfaction with distant administration. The region's history includes significant Māori presence, particularly the iwi Ngāti Kahungunu, and early European settlement initiated by whalers, traders, and missionaries in the 19th century. Although the provincial system was abolished in 1876, Hawke’s Bay Anniversary Day continues to be celebrated, reflecting on the area's agricultural and economic growth. The holiday allows for a four-day weekend, promoting local festivities and community engagement.