Christmas Day in New Zealand
December 25 is a public holiday across New Zealand. Christmas is a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, outdoor meals and summer holidays. While many traditions resemble those in the UK and other Western nations, New Zealanders celebrate under warm summer skies with distinctive local touches.
Christmas Day Date for 2025
| Name | Date | Day | Holiday Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Day | 25 Dec | Thursday | Public holiday |
Are Businesses Closed?
Christmas Day is a public holiday. Businesses, Offices, and shopping centers are closed.
Are Schools Closed?
Schools are closed throughout the Christmas and New Year. This period is included in the summer school holidays in New Zealand. Schools open with their new term only at the end of January or early February.
How New Zealanders celebrate Christmas
1. A summer holiday atmosphere
More than anywhere else, Christmas marks the start of the long summer break in New Zealand. Schools are closed, many businesses shut until mid-January, and many families travel to beaches, lakes or campgrounds. Christmas Day is often relaxed, outdoors and focused on spending time with whānau (family).
2. Christmas meals and kiwi food traditions
A typical New Zealand Christmas meal often blends classic roast dishes with fresh summer ingredients. Popular foods include:
- Ham, roast lamb or chicken
- Fresh seafood and prawns
- New potatoes and salads
- Pavlova topped with kiwifruit (not surprisingly!), berries or passionfruit
- Trifle, ice cream desserts and seasonal fruit
3. The Pōhutukawa — New Zealand’s Christmas tree
The red-flowering pōhutukawa tree is a symbolic part of Christmas in New Zealand. These coastal trees bloom in December and January and are often called the "New Zealand Christmas Tree". They feature in cards, decorations, art and family traditions.
4. Carols, church services and community celebrations
Many communities host outdoor carol events, Christmas parades and concerts. Churches hold midnight and morning services. Town centres and homes often display Christmas lights and decorations, especially in December.
5. Māori and Pasifika influences
Many families include Māori traditions and language in their Christmas celebrations. Greetings such as "Meri Kirihimete" are common. Pasifika families may include cultural prayers, songs and shared feasts.
Similarities with Christmas celebrations around the world
Christmas in New Zealand shares many familiar traditions:
- Decorated Christmas trees and lights
- Santa Claus and gift exchanges
- Church services and carols
- Family-focused meals and gatherings
Key differences compared with other countries
Summer weather
Unlike the snowy Christmas imagery seen in North America and Europe, New Zealand’s Christmas happens during warm summer days. This encourages outdoor meals, beach trips and light summer clothing, similar to Australia.
Food styles
Dishes often include seafood, salads and chilled desserts rather than heavy winter feasts.
Extended holidays
Christmas falls during the school summer holidays, meaning many families travel or camp throughout late December and January.
Māori cultural expressions
Te reo Māori greetings, songs and traditions are widely included in Christmas celebrations, which is not common in most other countries.
Boxing Day in New Zealand
26 December is also a public holiday. Many people spend it at the beach, watching cricket, shopping major retail sales, or visiting relatives.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is Christmas a public holiday in New Zealand?
Yes. Christmas Day (25 December) and Boxing Day (26 December) are public holidays nationwide.
Do most shops close on Christmas Day?
Yes. Most businesses, including supermarkets, are closed on Christmas Day. Some cafes and restaurants may open with limited hours.
What is the traditional New Zealand Christmas tree?
The pōhutukawa tree is often referred to as the New Zealand Christmas tree due to its bright red flowers during December.