Easter Monday in French Polynesia
Easter Monday is a recognized holiday in French Polynesia’s labour code. Its inclusion makes it a public holiday, but that does not automatically mean every employee has a paid day off: work arrangements depend on the applicable collective agreement, workplace agreement, employer decision or established practice.[1][2]
Legal status in French Polynesia
The territory’s labour code names Easter Monday alongside Good Friday, Ascension and Pentecost Monday. The list also includes local observances such as the Arrival of the Gospel and Matari‘i, placing Easter Monday within French Polynesia’s own statutory holiday framework.[1]
The Direction du travail clarifies that, except for 1 May, a recognized holiday is not automatically a day off with pay. For Easter Monday, whether work stops and how the day is paid can depend on an employer’s decision, workplace practice or a collective or company agreement. The terms can vary by sector, so employees should check their applicable agreement.[2]
Religious meaning and timing
Easter Monday comes the day after Easter Sunday, whose Christian celebration of the Resurrection continues through the Easter Octave. The local code recognizes both Good Friday and Easter Monday.[1][3]
Because Easter is a movable religious feast, Easter Monday’s calendar date changes from year to year, while it remains the Monday immediately following Easter Sunday.[3]
Work, shops and travel
The Direction du travail’s guidance makes the day-off question dependent on workplace rules. Check with the office, bank, shop or service before visiting or travelling.[1][2]
Residents and visitors should check directly with the office, shop, bank or transport provider they plan to use.[2]
Easter Monday in French Polynesia: FAQs
Is Easter Monday a day off for workers?
When does Easter Monday fall?
It falls on the Monday immediately after Easter Sunday. Its calendar date changes each year.[3]
Do all shops, banks and public offices close?
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Shops and transport operators set their own hours, so check with them before you travel.[1]
Are ferries or tourist services on a holiday timetable?
Check directly with the ferry operator or service provider before travelling.[2]
Is a substitute day listed?
Easter Monday follows Easter Sunday, so its date changes each year.[3]
Sources and references
Sources used for Easter Monday in French Polynesia:
- Fiches pratiques – Direction du travail- Direction du travail de la Polynésie française
- JOURS FÉRIÉS : IMPACTS DE LA LOI DU PAYS N° 2025-12 DU 20 JUIN 2025- Direction du travail de la Polynésie française
- Regina Caeli, 9 April 2007, Easter Monday- The Holy See