The Story of New Zealand Grandparent's Day
Grandparent’s Day has been celebrated in the United States since the 1970's. It was initiated at the grassroots level by West Virginian Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade.
Mrs. McQuade wanted Grandparent’s Day to be a family day. She envisioned families enjoying small, private gatherings, perhaps even a family reunion, or participating in community events. Mrs. McQuade started her campaign for a day to honour grandparents in 1970 and first launched the day in her home state in 1973. Then, after many years, much persuasion, and unending persistence, she finally achieved her bigger goal. It was in 1979 that President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first Sunday after Labour Day each year as National Grandparents Day.
Other Countries have now joined in the celebration, including Canada, the UK and Australia, so we feel it is time for New Zealand to claim their official Grandparent’s Day #DoSomethingGrandNZ.
Following in Australia's footsteps, New Zealand celebrated our inaugural New Zealand Grandparent’s Day on Sunday the 28 October 2018.
Next year Grandparent’s Day is Sunday 1 October 2023
Who we are
New Zealand Grandparent’s Day is powered by GrandFriends NZ (Surrogate Grandparents New Zealand Charitable Trust). A registered NZ Charitable Trust set up by British expat Jo Hayes, in 2017.
GrandFriends is a little charity that combats big issues like isolation and loneliness.
We are the bridge that brings kiwis together from across the generations. By connecting families with GrandFriends, we provide a long-lasting “people” solution to loneliness.
Using our years of experience we match like-minded GrandFriends, extending their support networks, so they can enjoy the special moments, share the load - all the while combating loneliness.
For further information please go to our website.
Purpose
There are three purposes for New Zealand Grandparent’s Day:
1. To honour grandparents and members of our senior community.
2. To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children.
3. To help children become aware of the strength, information and guidance older people can offer