Kiwis visit their favourite coastal spot with their families and friends on Christmas
Few would associate Spring with Christmas or colourful flowers and sunny days, but those seeking such a unique Christmas can head to the New Zealand where Christmas comes bang in the middle of transition from Spring to Summer.
The long daylight hours make New Zealand an ideal place for travellers looking to escape the Christmas winter. Unlike the rest of the world, for Kiwis, summer is a time of indulgence and celebration, with December being the peak month for family gatherings. Just like the unique weather, Kiwis also have their unique way of celebrating Christmas.
On Christmas, instead of spending it besides the Christmas tree at home, visitors can visit one of the local parks and camp under the Pohutukawa tree. The Pohutukawa tree is known for blazing red flowers that bloom in December. In New Zealand, Pohutukawa tree has replaced the traditional Christmas tree and is established as part of the Christmas tradition in the country.
In New Zealand, a Christmas tradition is to barbeque a variety of fresh seafood and quality cuts of meat which are complemented with exotic salads and seasonal vegetables – an emphasis on simplicity, organic, home-grown and healthy. Kiwis love their BBQs, and Christmas is no exception. Barbeques are also a practical choice as a quick and easy way to feed a large group of family members and friends.
As New Zealand’s winter is the opposite of a winter wonderland a few Kiwis have tweaked the lyrics of some favourite carols or written brand-new Christmas songs. A few favourites that are played every year are Te Haranui, Christmas in New Zealand, A Kiwiana Christmas, and Sticky Beak the Kiwi. Some of the carols, such as Silent Night, have been translated into the native Maori language, in addition to rewriting the 12 Days of Christmas as A Pukeko in a Ponga Tree.
On Christmas Day, families and groups of friends from all over the country go to their favourite coastal spots. From swimming to sunbathing, from sandcastle construction and more, Kiwis love to indulge in these all-time favourite beach activities. One could also spot Santas on the beach. These summer Santas could be seen surfing, jet skiing, paragliding and sailing, and even doing deliveries by water in a traditional waka Māori canoe.
