The following lists events that happened during 1887 in New Zealand.

Incumbents

Regal and viceregal

Government and law

In the general election on 22 July the Premier Robert Stout loses his seat. A new ministry is formed, the 10th New Zealand Parliament, on 8 October, with Harry Atkinson as Premier, and is announced on 11 October. This is the Atkinson's fourth separate term as Premier.

Main centre leaders

Events

Sport

Athletics

The Canterbury, Hawke's Bay, Otago and Southland clubs form the New Zealand Amateur Athletics Association, now Athletics New Zealand. Auckland refuses to join. The NZAAA is "one of the two oldest national bodies among the members of the IAAF". The first New Zealand Championships will be held towards the end of the 1887–88 season (see 1888).

Horse racing

The Auckland Cup of 1887 is moved to January 1888. Subsequently the Auckland Cup is normally scheduled for New Year's Day.

Major race winners

Lawn bowls

The first singles championship is held.

National Champions

Rowing

The New Zealand Amateur Rowing Association is formed on 16 March. 9 clubs are present. The first Championships are held at the end of the 1887–88 season. (see 1888)

Rugby Union

The Southland union is formed. Provincial club rugby champions include:

Shooting

Ballinger Belt – Captain White (Gordon Rifles, Auckland)

Tennis

The first New Zealand Championships are held.

New Zealand championships

Births

Deaths