Christmas, Kiwi Style: How to Spend the Day in Auckland or Queenstown
A lot of people from the Northern Hemisphere never quite get used to the idea of Christmas being hot. No snow, no coats, no early nights. But down in this part of the world, Christmas looks a little different, and that is very much part of the charm.
Instead of fireplaces and mulled wine, Christmas in New Zealand is about long summer days, time outdoors, and making the most of where you are. Whether you are spending the day in Auckland or Queenstown, a little local knowledge goes a long way.
What Christmas Day Looks Like in New Zealand
Christmas Day here is calm, quiet, and noticeably slower paced. Most people are at home with family or heading outdoors, which means towns and cities feel far less busy than usual.
Generally open
Beaches, lakes, parks, and walking tracks
Outdoor spaces and scenic drives
Some cafés and hotel restaurants
Generally closed or limited
Supermarkets and retail stores
Public transport services
Many tours and attractions
The golden rule is simple. Buy your food the day before and plan to enjoy the outdoors rather than ticking off activities.
Christmas Day in Auckland
Auckland on Christmas Day is surprisingly relaxed. The roads are quieter, the beaches feel more spacious, and the city has a laid back holiday feel.
Common ways people spend the day include
Beach time at Mission Bay, Takapuna, or out west at Piha
Picnics in Cornwall Park or along the waterfront
A scenic drive north towards Matakana or south towards quieter coastlines
An easy wander while the city slows right down
Christmas Day in Queenstown
Queenstown does Christmas its own way. While the town centre is a little quieter, the landscape does not take the day off.
Many visitors spend Christmas Day
Swimming or relaxing by the lake
Taking a scenic drive to Glenorchy
Visiting Arrowtown for a slower pace
Enjoying a picnic with mountain views
A Different Kind of Christmas Dinner
You can absolutely find a traditional turkey dinner if that feels like home. But while you are here, we would also recommend embracing the local way of doing things.
Grab a good old fashioned Kiwi pie, pack a picnic, and head outdoors. Whether that means a beach in Auckland or a lakeside spot in Queenstown, it is your holiday. Do it your way and explore at a pace that feels right to you.
Why a Rental Car Makes It All Easier
Christmas Day is one of those days where flexibility matters more than planning. With limited public transport and fewer taxis available, relying on last minute options can shape your day for you.
A rental car gives you the freedom to change plans, carry everything you need, and explore without pressure. It lets you do Christmas exactly how you want, whether that is a full day of driving or a short trip out of town.
At Evolve Rentals, we often see guests who might not normally hire a car choosing to do so over Christmas simply to make the day easier.
A Christmas Tradition, Evolve Style
Every year, we like to take a moment to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and thank our customers for choosing to explore New Zealand with us. If you would like a little throwback, you can read last year’s Christmas message here.
Enjoy Christmas, Kiwi Style
Christmas in New Zealand is different, and that is exactly what makes it special. Sunshine, open spaces, and the freedom to move turn it into a day that feels relaxed rather than rushed.
If you are travelling over Christmas, book your car with Evolve Rentals and enjoy the freedom to explore the way you see fit.