Jul 2

Jul 2 4th of July

It’s nearly July 4th, which obviously isn’t a holiday in New Zealand, but there are still ways to celebrate. While in the past I feel like there have been many more options for 4th of July festivities, this year seems reserved. Perhaps it is because people are still being cautious after lockdown or perhaps the US has simply lost its lustre as of late. While there aren’t a lot of options, I’ve managed to find a few, though none on the South Island:

The New Zealand American Association is hosting a celebration on July 3 at The Old Bailey in Wellington.
Also in Wellington, the Democrats Abroad will celebrate at The Arborist on July 4.
If you’re in Auckland, Zack’s in Parnell is having an American themed 4th of July party, complete with free hotdogs if you have (or can imitate) a good American accent.
If you’re after American food and music, Wynyard Grill in Auckland is serving a “classic American feast.” If anyone attends this, I’d love to know if it is any good!
The American Club is hosting a get together (ironically watching rugby, the most American of sports) at Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen in Auckland on the 4th.
New Plymouth is hosting a BBQ at the Merriland Domain.

Another way to have a low-key Americana fix? You an always visit Martha’s Backyard for all of your July 4th swag. The first time I walked into this store, I honestly thought a Party City threw up red, white, & blue all over the place. The amount of patriotic items they had was intense.

Strangely, the US Embassy is hosting an online film night on the 4th. The film? It’s a Chilean documentary called The Cordillera of Dreams. I’m rather confused about the Embassy’s priority for the 4th of July. Does anyone else find this weird?

I also want to include a note about fireworks in New Zealand as many Americans like a good ol’ fashioned fireworks display or sparkler. In New Zealand, fireworks are only sold for four days a year - November 2 - 5 leading up to Guy Fawkes Day. However, there are no rules or restrictions on when you can light them off, but you still need to be careful as there are rules as to where you can light them if you happen to have a few stashed away from last November. Check your local restrictions as they usually include bans on fireworks at parks, public places, and after 10:30 pm.

And my final piece of 4th of July advice is on hot dog selection. There are amazing frankfurter and sausage options here in New Zealand, and we enjoy the selection and freshness of Kiwi meats immensely. However, after a lot of taste testing and family debate, our house thinks the most authentic American hot dog is Heller’s American Style Hot Dogs, found in 6 packs at most grocery stores. If you can find these, you’ll be well on your way to a 4th of July BBQ.