Dreaming of a holiday season with sunshine instead of snow? Christmas in New Zealand flips the classic winter story into a bright summer celebration. Here, you can go on beach picnics, backyard barbecues, and festive road trips under clear blue skies.
Instead of bundling up in coats, you’ll be reaching for sunscreen. Christmas in New Zealand is warm and relaxed, where you can enjoy festive events in the city, coastal escapes and vineyard lunches. In this guide, you’ll learn how locals celebrate, where to go, what to eat, and how to make the most of your summer holiday adventure!
A unique summer Christmas in New Zealand
The Pohutukawa tree, also known as New Zealand’s Christmas tree | Photo by Martin Bridges on Unsplash
Because December falls in summer, Christmas in New Zealand feels fresh and outdoorsy. Families gather for beach days, backyard cricket, and festive BBQ feasts. You’ll spot Santa in shorts and jandals (flip-flops) and hear Christmas carols playing in sunny parks.
Instead of a pine tree, many Kiwis decorate the iconic Pohutukawa tree. With its bright red blooms, the Pohutukawa tree is often called New Zealand’s Christmas tree and lights up coastlines every December.
Celebrating Christmas in Auckland and Queenstown
Spending Christmas in Auckland City? You’ll find lively events, sparkling decorations, festive markets, and waterfront celebrations that light up after sunset. It’s a cheerful place to enjoy the holiday mood while enjoying warm summer evenings.
Or if you’re planning to spend Christmas Day in Queenstown, this city shines in summer, with hiking trails, lake cruises, and adventure activities like this Queenstown zipline experience. Take a walk by Lake Wakatipu, then sit down for a festive dinner at a local restaurant and toast to a Christmas with a view.
Spend Christmas by the sea
One of the best parts of Christmas in New Zealand is spending the day outdoors. Switch heavy meals and cold weather for a relaxed beach picnic with your family and friends!
Head north to the Bay of Islands, where calm waters and sunny skies set the perfect holiday mood. Join the Cape Reinga & Ninety Mile Beach tour and stand where two oceans meet—a memorable way to mark the season!
Or if you want to experience that classic summer scenery during Christmas, then you must visit Cathedral Cove! The clear blue water and huge cliffs feel extra special during the festive break.
For a more relaxed celebration, go on a Waiheke wine tour and enjoy a long vineyard lunch. Raise a glass, enjoy fresh local flavors, and celebrate Christmas the Kiwi way: sunny, scenic, and full of good cheer!
Christmas food in New Zealand
Classic New Zealand pavlova topped with fresh berries and whipped cream | Photo from Chris Olszewski on Wikimedia
Food is a big part of Christmas in New Zealand, and the menu reflects the sunny season. A traditional spread typically includes glazed ham, roast lamb, or turkey served with fresh summer salads. Seafood like prawns and green-lipped mussels is also popular, especially for coastal celebrations.
And for dessert, no Christmas celebration is complete without pavlova. This light, meringue cake is topped with whipped cream and fresh berries or kiwi fruit. Trifles, mince pies, and bowls of cherries are common too.
FAQs about Christmas in New Zealand
How do New Zealanders celebrate Christmas?
They celebrate with beach trips, BBQs, family gatherings, and outdoor activities in the summer sun.
Is Christmas a good time to visit New Zealand?
Yes! The weather is warm, attractions are open, and the country feels festive and lively.
How does New Zealand say "Merry Christmas"?
People say “Merry Christmas," or in Māori, “Meri Kirihimete.”
What do they eat on Christmas Day in New Zealand?
BBQ meats, fresh seafood, salads, pavlova, and summer fruits are popular choices.
More New Zealand guides for you!
What is Klook?
Klook is a leading pan-regional experiences platform in Asia Pacific, purpose built to digitalize experiences and make them accessible to every traveler.
Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
✨ Follow us for more deals and inspiration for your upcoming travels
