Christmastime is frequently linked with cold, damp, and dark days in many regions of the world. However, here in New Zealand, we have the unique experience of soaking in the sun, taking a refreshing plunge in the water, and planning epic summer vacations.

Kiwis know how to make the most of the holiday season, with long, languid days full with barbecues, beach activities, and outdoor events. From family gatherings to local traditions, each celebration embodies our love of the outdoors and the colorful energy of summer.

Read on to discover some traditional Kiwi ways to celebrate the holidays, emphasizing the delights of sun-soaked Christmas vacations and the treasured experiences that make this time of year so unique.

A Santa Parade.

Like people all throughout the world, Kiwis excitedly await the day when Santa and his elves walk along the streets accompanied singers, gigantic inflatables, and entertainment groups galore.

What began as a marketing strategy to attract customers to department stores in the early twentieth century has grown into a beloved ritual that captivates the hearts of both young and old. Every year, towns and cities come to life with festive decorations, colorful floats, and the happy sounds of carols resounding across the streets.

The entire experience has been transformed into a large family day out, complete with a myriad of exciting activities for both children and adults. In recent years, Santa has arrived from the North Pole via plane, elephant, and parachute, with department stores going to considerable lengths to outdo the others to create remarkable displays.

This boisterous procession is more than simply the start of the Christmas season; it is a beloved Kiwi traditionthat brings communities together and greets Santa's arrival as we prepare for the festive celebrations ahead.

Party on the beach

With summer in full swing over the holiday season, it's no surprise that celebrating Christmas and Boxing Day at the beach has become a popular Kiwi custom. Some arrive as early as sunrise to avoid the crowds, while others spend a relaxing morning with their families before joining the beach activities later in the day. By lunchtime, it's time for a delicious barbecue with friends (subject to beach limits), followed by a dip in the water and drying off in the hot sun.

A large element of outdoor pleasure includes a competitive atmosphere, as individuals compete in rounds of cricket, football, or a more casual game of frisbee. Being with family and friends is the core of Christmas, and being able to gather by the beach provides the ideal backdrop for spending quality time together.

With so many beautiful beaches to select from, you're sure to find the perfect Christmas getaway for you and your family. If you're planning a longer stay, looking into holiday houses in New Zealand might offer you with the ideal base for your coastal activities. Here are some of our favourite beach destinations to inspire and prepare you for Christmas.

The Kiwi Christmas Tree

The pōhutukawa tree, with its brilliant scarlet blossom, has long been a symbol among New Zealand's flora and has become an entrenched element of Kiwi Christmas tradition. Blooming over the holiday season, it has earned the title of New Zealand's Christmas tree.

This treasured tree is extensively featured in local songs, literature, and art, appearing on the fronts of Christmas cards and inspiring innumerable festive designs. Branches and flowers are frequently utilized to decorate house facades and interiors, producing a festive atmosphere throughout the country.

While many Kiwis decorate their houses with traditional evergreens, the pōhutukawa tree is a true Kiwi Christmas emblem that is cherished and treasured. Without the need for extra decorations, its vibrant crimson hues capture the heart of the season, encouraging us all to celebrate the distinct charm of a Kiwi Christmas.

Escaping to Bach

Because Christmas and New Year's fall during our summer holidays, many Kiwis take advantage of this chance to organize a longer vacation with family and friends. While some travel beyond the country, many find paradise right here.

Booking a bach is a popular method for Kiwis to explore their own backyard. New Zealand holiday houses cater to every ideal destination, whether it's on our beautiful beaches, majestic mountain ranges, or in a vibrant metropolis. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the beach, birds chirping in your isolated hillside getaway, or the buzz and bustle of a fashionable downtown apartment. When it comes to deciding on the finest Christmas destination, the possibilities are limitless.

Holiday homes in New Zealand have become an extremely popular way to spend Christmas due to the numerous amenities they provide, such as storage room for Christmas presents and a kitchen to prepare a family feast. They are the ideal home away from home, making the holiday season even more memorable.

Find your dream New Zealand Holiday Home in the top Christmas locations.

In New Zealand, Christmas is a lively festival imbued with the spirit of summer. Kiwis take pride in their distinctive Christmas customs, like Santa parades, beachside picnics, and the pōhutukawa tree.

Whether they're meeting with loved ones at the beach or fleeing to a cozy bach for their Christmas vacations, the holiday season is a time for connection, laughing, and making wonderful memories. Discover the beauty of a summer trip in Aotearoa by exploring these historic Kiwi Christmas traditions.

This year, make your Kiwi Christmas even more memorable by exploring some wonderful beaches and creating your ideal vacation getaway.