Christmas in New Zealand: What It’s Really Like Celebrating as a Kiwi
If you’re spending Christmas in New Zealand, forget snow, roast dinners by the fire and woolly jumpers.
I grew up with Kiwi Christmases, which meant sausages on the barbecue, cold ham for what felt like a month and pōhutukawa trees in full bloom (which I’m actually allergic to).
It’s a brilliant time to visit, but a lot of the country shuts down for the day, which catches plenty of travellers out.
So here’s what a Kiwi Christmas is really like, plus what you can still do on Christmas Day if you’re travelling.
Quick Answer: Christmas in New Zealand
⭐⭐⭐ What’s the weather like? It’s summer, so think shorts, barbecues and beach days rather than snow.
⭐⭐ Where should you stay? The Hilton Auckland sits right on Princes Wharf, close to the Viaduct restaurants that often open for Christmas lunch. Check prices & availability →
⭐ What’s open on Christmas Day? Beaches, walks and parks, but most shops and attractions close, so book tours like the Waiheke Island fast ferry for the days around it. Check availability →
What Makes a Kiwi Christmas Special?
Christmas in New Zealand is far from your traditional snowy holiday.
Since the country is in the southern hemisphere, it’s summer during Christmas time. Expect shorts, beers and barbecues.
This means you’re more likely to celebrate with a beach day or a barbecue than by a cosy fire.
The warm weather invites outdoor celebrations, and New Zealanders embrace this fully by either spending it in their backyard or at the local beach.
New Zealand has a couple of types of Christmas trees they use!
Some use the classic pine tree, but many also decorate with the native pōhutukawa trees, known for their bright red flowers that bloom in early December.
This New Zealand Christmas tree has become an iconic symbol of the Christmas season, adding to the summer vibe.
If you need a good Kiwi summer music playlist, this is one of my favourites on Spotify.
BUT if you have allergies, you will most likely not enjoy the flowers of this tree!
Christmas Traditions in New Zealand
Though New Zealand shares many Christmas traditions with the rest of the world, like Christmas cards, Christmas crackers, and festive lights, there’s a distinct Kiwi flavour to the celebrations.
Many families celebrate Christmas Eve with shared meals or attending Christmas carols.
Christmas Day is often spent outdoors, enjoying the sunshine with loved ones, which surprises a lot of people who don’t know many facts about New Zealand.
A traditional Christmas lunch might include fresh salads, seafood, and cold meats, not so much roast vegetables and hot meals.
Some still prefer a roast turkey, but a typical Christmas dinner can easily become a barbecue with sausages sizzling on the grill.
In New Zealand, you might hear “Meri Kirihimete” instead of “Merry Christmas,” which is how you say it in te reo Māori (I’ve also explained what kia ora means).
And of course, it wouldn’t be complete without some mince pies and Christmas cake (and a glass of something from one of the best New Zealand wineries) to top off the celebrations!
Where I’d Stay Over Christmas in New Zealand
(⭐⭐⭐ = my top pick)
⭐⭐⭐ Hilton Auckland: Pick this one if you want Christmas on the harbour. It sits right on Princes Wharf, a short walk from the Viaduct restaurants. Check prices & availability →
⭐⭐ The Spire Hotel: Pick this one if you’re spending Christmas in the South Island. It’s a boutique hotel in central Queenstown with fantastic reviews, a short walk from the lake and Queenstown Gardens. Check prices & availability →
⭐ Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park: Pick this one if you want a proper Kiwi summer holiday. Lots of Kiwi families spend the Christmas break camping, and this holiday park is a short walk from Hot Water Beach in the Coromandel. Check prices & availability →
5 Foods Commonly Served at a Kiwi Christmas
Here’s a quick list of the most popular foods served at Christmas in New Zealand:
1. Barbecued Meats
Instead of the traditional oven-cooked meals, Christmas dinner in New Zealand often features barbecued sausages, steaks, and even lamb.
My family would normally do sausages on the bbq as they are super easy and everyone usually loves them.
2. Pavlova
This meringue-based dessert is a Kiwi classic, topped with whipped cream and fresh summer fruits like strawberries and kiwi.
3. Seafood
Freshly caught seafood is often a part of the Christmas lunch, with prawns, oysters, and salmon being local favourites.
We sometimes have smoked salmon which is just SO delicious.
4. Cold Ham
It’s very common for families to buy cured ham that is usually eaten cold.
Some families cook the ham, but mine always carved it up and ate it cold.
And the great thing about it is that you’ll have ham for the next month!
5. Mince Pies
Mince pies are a Christmas staple in New Zealand, offering a sweet treat filled with dried fruit and spices.
Kiwi Christmas Celebrations
One unique aspect of Christmas time in New Zealand is how it overlaps with the summer holidays.
Families often head to the beach, go camping at one of the best campsites in New Zealand, or take road trips to enjoy the outdoors.
The Christmas period blends into New Year’s celebrations, meaning there are several public holidays in a row and allowing Kiwi families to be together at Christmas.
It’s common to see Christmas parades in early December, where locals gather for festive floats and bands, and of course, Santa Claus.
These events bring communities together and are highlights of the Christmas celebrations (for more Kiwi takes on them, follow the top New Zealand travel bloggers).
On Boxing Day, another public holiday, people continue the fun with family picnics, trips to the beach, or by indulging in some retail therapy at the post-Christmas sales.
Boxing Day sales are super popular in New Zealand and usually, you can find some good deals, which helps if you’re wondering whether New Zealand is expensive.
3 Summer Experiences I’d Book Over the Holidays
⛴️ Waiheke Island Return Fast Ferry: Pick this one if you want a summer day of beaches and vineyards. The fast ferry takes about 40 minutes from downtown Auckland. Check availability →
🛶 Auckland Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: Pick this one if you want something a little unique. You paddle out after dark on a warm summer night while bioluminescent plankton lights up the water around you. Check availability →
🏔️ Milford Sound Coach and Cruise Day Trip: Pick this one if you’re in the South Island. The long summer days make the drive from Queenstown and the cruise through Milford Sound even better. Check availability →
Symbols of Christmas in New Zealand
What makes Christmas in New Zealand even more special are the unique symbols and traditions that come with it.
Here are a few you’ll find during the festive season:
The Pōhutukawa Tree
Known as the New Zealand Christmas tree, the pōhutukawa is celebrated for its bright red flowers, making it a symbol of summer and the Christmas holidays.
Santa Claus in a swimsuit
Santa Claus makes an appearance in every Christmas parade, often dressed for the warm weather in a lighter suit or sometimes swimwear and jandals.
Beach Barbecues
Instead of sitting by a fire, many New Zealanders head to the beach, bringing along portable barbecues to celebrate Christmas Day under the sun.
Christmas Parades
Cities and towns host Christmas parades with locals participating in floats, music, and performances, bringing communities together for the holiday spirit.
6 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day in New Zealand if You’re Travelling
If you’re spending Christmas Day in New Zealand while travelling, it’s important to note that many places, including shops and attractions, will be closed for the holiday.
Most local businesses will also be closed for New Year’s day too by the way!
However, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the day and make the most of your time in this beautiful country (my New Zealand travel tips for first-timers help with that too).
Here are six great things you can do on Christmas Day in New Zealand, even when many places are shut (for the rest of your trip, see my best things to do in New Zealand).
1. Relax at the Beach
One of the best things about Christmas in New Zealand is the warm summer weather, making the beach an ideal place to spend the day.
With the sun shining and the ocean calling, heading to one of New Zealand’s stunning beaches is a must.
Whether you’re on the North Island or South Island, you’ll have plenty of gorgeous options to choose from (and the ferry between the North and South Island makes it easy to see both).
Bring along a picnic or pick up a takeaway meal from one of the takeaway shops or restaurants that may be open and enjoy a relaxed Kiwi-style Christmas lunch by the water.
It’s a great way to unwind and soak up the festive atmosphere.
2. Enjoy a Scenic Walk or Hike
While many tourist attractions and businesses will be closed, New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes remain wide open.
Christmas Day is a great time to explore some of the country’s incredible walking tracks and hiking trails.
In the North Island, you could take a stroll along the Auckland Waterfront or enjoy a walk in Cornwall Park for a mix of green space and city views.
If you’re near Rotorua, the Redwoods Forest is a fantastic spot for a Christmas Day walk, with its towering trees and well-marked trails.
In the South Island, head to Queenstown Gardens for a scenic walk with stunning lake and mountain views, or visit Christchurch’s Hagley Park for a leisurely stroll surrounded by nature.
Spending the day in the great outdoors is a peaceful way to celebrate the holiday and take in New Zealand’s natural beauty.
3. Dine Out at a Restaurant Offering Christmas Lunch
While most restaurants and cafes will be closed, some establishments offer special Christmas lunch or dinner menus.
Many hotels and a few restaurants in popular tourist areas will open their doors for a festive meal, but it’s important to book in advance.
In larger cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown, you’ll find some restaurants that remain open on Christmas Day, serving traditional dishes and local favourites like fresh seafood and salads.
Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour and Wellington’s waterfront often have restaurants that offer special Christmas meals, giving you the chance to enjoy a hassle-free, festive dining experience (if you’re unsure about the bill, see my guide to tipping in New Zealand).
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a festive feast without having to worry about cooking or cleanup!
4. Take a Drive to Explore New Zealand’s Scenic Routes
If you’re keen to explore but want to avoid busy areas (or find a few New Zealand hidden gems), consider taking a scenic drive through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes.
Since Christmas Day tends to be quieter on the roads, it’s a perfect time to enjoy the country’s stunning coastal and mountain routes, whether in a hire car or with campervan hire in New Zealand.
In the North Island, you could drive the Coromandel Peninsula, which offers beautiful coastal views, or take a trip along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway for a mix of beach and forest scenery.
On the South Island, consider driving the Queenstown to Glenorchy route, which is known for its dramatic mountain and lake views, or explore the Canterbury Plains for wide open vistas and peaceful countryside.
Driving through these scenic routes is a relaxing way to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty at your own pace.
My Number One Tip: Hire a Car for Full Flexibility
If you’re travelling over Christmas, the roads are quieter on the day itself, and a scenic drive is one of the best ways to spend it. It’s all much easier with your own wheels.
Check here for the best car rental companies and prices for your New Zealand trip →
5. Visit a Public Park or Garden
Public parks and gardens are open year-round, and they offer a serene spot to relax or have a picnic on Christmas Day.
Many towns and cities across New Zealand have beautiful parks where you can unwind, enjoy the sunshine, and even have a casual Christmas gathering with fellow travellers.
Auckland’s Cornwall Park is a great place to enjoy a picnic under the shade of large trees, and Christchurch’s Hagley Park offers expansive green spaces, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.
In Wellington, the Botanic Gardens are a lovely spot to visit, with panoramic views over the city and harbour.
Bring along some snacks or a pre-packed meal, and enjoy a quiet Christmas surrounded by nature.
Public parks are a relaxing and affordable option to make the most of the holiday without needing to plan much in advance.
6. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of a City
If you’re staying in one of New Zealand’s major cities, why not spend the day exploring on foot?
Many cities offer self-guided walking tours that allow you to explore at your own pace while taking in the history and architecture of the area.
In Wellington, you can wander through the city’s vibrant waterfront area, taking in iconic landmarks like the Beehive and the Civic Square.
In Auckland, explore Auckland Domain, or walk through the bustling Viaduct Harbour area to enjoy the harbour views and marina.
While most shops and attractions will be closed, you’ll still be able to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces, architecture, and coastal scenery.
Grab a coffee or an ice cream from one of the few open cafes and enjoy the calm atmosphere as the city takes a break for the holiday.
A self-guided city tour is a great way to get to know New Zealand’s urban areas without the crowds.
Christmas in New Zealand is all about embracing the summer weather, good food, and quality time with loved ones.
From beach barbecues to festive parades and the iconic pōhutukawa tree, it’s a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season.
Whether you’re experiencing a Kiwi Christmas for the first time or it’s a beloved yearly tradition, Christmas in New Zealand is guaranteed to bring warmth, joy, and a whole lot of sunshine.
So this year, say “Meri Kirihimete” and enjoy the best of both summer and Christmas combined!
