Why Christmas in New Zealand is unique
In New Zealand, Christmas Day falls right in the middle of summer. That means long daylight hours, warm evenings, and plenty of time spent outside. Instead of cosying up by a fire, it’s more about beach days, barbecues, and cooling off with a dip in the ocean.
The festive season blends familiar European traditions with a relaxed Kiwi twist. You’ll still spot Christmas trees and fairy lights, but they’re often alongside seafood spreads, backyard cricket and laid-back afternoon gatherings.
One thing you’ll notice as you travel is the bright red pōhutukawa trees lining the coast and city streets. Often called New Zealand’s Christmas tree, they flower right on cue and bring a burst of colour to the landscape.
And don’t be surprised if someone wishes you Meri Kirihimete. It’s how we say Merry Christmas in te reo Māori, and you’ll see it on everything from cards to shop windows.
The motorhome advantage
One of the best things about travelling New Zealand at Christmas by motorhome is the flexibility. Whether you’re after a quiet lakeside spot or a lively coastal town with plenty going on, you can shape your holiday to suit the kind of Christmas you want.
There’s no need to juggle hotel bookings or stick to a tight itinerary. Your campervan is both your transport and your accommodation, so you’ve got everything you need in one place.
For couples, it’s a chance to slow down and spend time together. Families can spread out and settle in, with the bonus of not having to pack and unpack at every stop. And for solo travellers, it’s a great way to see more of the country without the usual holiday hassle.
Whether you're following the sunshine or just seeing where the road takes you, a motorhome gives you the freedom to enjoy Christmas your way.
Where to spend Christmas in New Zealand in a motorhome
Christmas is a fantastic time for a road trip in a campervan. Across the country, you’ll find markets, carol evenings and even the occasional beachside concert – all adding to the festive feel. Here are a few of our top picks to add to your travel itinerary.
Bay of Islands
If you’re looking for classic summer vibes, the Bay of Islands is a solid choice. This far-north region is known for its warm weather, laid-back pace and easy access to the water. You can head out on a boat cruise, spend the afternoon snorkelling, or settle in at a beachside campground. The area also hosts seasonal events and markets in local towns like Paihia and Kerikeri, which give it a welcoming, holiday feel.
Queenstown
Known for its alpine setting, Queenstown does Christmas with a scenic twist. The lake is perfect for a paddle or picnic, and you’ve got mountain views in just about every direction. It’s a popular spot for both locals and international visitors at this time of year, with a buzz around the town centre and a calendar full of summer events. You’ll also find plenty of holiday parks with good facilities, making it a great option if you’re travelling by motorhome.
Rotorua
In Rotorua, Christmas comes with the added bonus of hot springs, geothermal parks and strong cultural experiences. You can take a guided tour to learn about local Māori traditions, or relax in one of the area’s many natural spas. With walks around the lakes and forest areas, it’s a great spot for those wanting to mix relaxation with a bit of sightseeing. There are also local markets and cultural performances that give Christmas here a distinctive feel.
Coromandel Peninsula
The Coromandel Peninsula is a popular choice for a summer getaway, especially around Christmas. With its white-sand beaches, native bush and easygoing feel, it draws plenty of holidaymakers. Hot Water Beach is a local highlight, and nearby Cathedral Cove is worth a visit if you’re up for a short walk. Campgrounds fill up quickly here in December, so it’s one spot where early booking is a must.
Nelson and Abel Tasman
With some of the best weather in the country, Nelson is a top pick for Christmas on the road. It’s close to Abel Tasman National Park, where you can go hiking, kayaking or simply relax along the coast. The local food and wine scene adds to the experience, and there’s often something happening in the town centre over the holiday period. Base yourself at a nearby campground and you’ll have easy access to both nature and local events.
If you’re planning to travel by motorhome over the Christmas period, it’s a good idea to lock in your spots early. This is one of the busiest times of the year in New Zealand, and popular campgrounds can fill up fast. To make things easier, download the thl Roadtrip app, which can help you search and book campsites as you go.
What a typical Kiwi Christmas on the road looks like
Christmas Day in a motorhome feels different – in the best possible way. The morning might start with birdsong and a walk along the beach, or even a swim before breakfast if you’re parked near the coast. There's no rush, no schedule, just the freedom to ease into the day.
Lunch is often something simple and fresh. You might fire up the barbecue for local seafood or pick up something from a farmers’ market the day before. Many campgrounds have outdoor areas where travellers come together to share a meal or a few holiday treats.
Afternoons are made for beach cricket, sunbathing, or reading in the shade. Some travellers like to join local events – Christmas markets, carol nights or pop-up concerts – while others keep things low-key with a walk or a card game back at camp.
One of the best parts of spending Christmas in a motorhome is that you can shape it however you like. You can lean into familiar traditions or try something completely new. Either way, it’s a relaxed, memorable way to celebrate the season under the southern sun.
READ MORE: Keen to take an extended campervan holiday? Take a look at this inspiring story on how to spend a month roading tripping around New Zealand.
Tips for a smooth Christmas motorhome experience
Planning a motorhome trip over Christmas is a great way to enjoy the season, but a little preparation can make all the difference. Here are a few practical tips to help things run smoothly.
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Book early: December is one of the busiest travel months in New Zealand. Popular spots – especially beachside campgrounds – fill up fast, so it’s worth booking your site well in advance. This also goes for activities or restaurants you might want to visit on Christmas Day or Boxing Day.
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Stay charged and stocked: Plan ahead for power, groceries and waste disposal. Many supermarkets and service stations close on Christmas Day, and some have shorter hours on surrounding days, so it’s a good idea to do your shopping early.
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Consider booking Christmas lunch: If you'd prefer to skip cooking on the day, look for a restaurant near your campground that’s open for Christmas lunch. Some offer special menus and set seatings, and they tend to book out early.
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Pack smart: The Kiwi summer can be hot and unpredictable, so pack for a range of conditions. Sunscreen, swimsuits, light clothing, hats and insect repellent are all worth bringing. A few simple decorations or fairy lights can also help bring a festive feel to your motorhome.
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Join campground celebrations: Many holiday parks host low-key social events like shared meals or afternoon games. These can be a nice way to meet other travellers and enjoy a sense of community while you’re on the road.
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Stay connected: Whether it’s sharing a video call with family or uploading a few holiday photos, staying in touch helps make Christmas on the road feel just as connected as one at home. Most campgrounds offer Wi-Fi, or you can travel with a mobile hotspot for more consistent coverage.
Sustainable & minimalist festive living
One of the unexpected joys of a motorhome Christmas is how simple it can be. With limited space and no pressure to fill the day with excess, it’s a great opportunity to step back from the usual holiday rush.
Travelling by motorhome naturally encourages a more minimalist way of celebrating. You tend to shop more mindfully, bring only what you need, and focus on the things that matter, like good food, good company and time spent outdoors.
It’s also a chance to reduce waste. Instead of overloading on wrapping paper and single-use decorations, consider reusable gift bags or sharing experiences instead of physical presents. Even a shared barbecue or potluck lunch can feel special with a bit of planning.
By keeping things simple, Christmas becomes less about the stuff and more about the setting, the people you’re with, and the small moments that make the day memorable.
Ready to plan a Christmas campervan holiday?
Christmas in New Zealand is made for road trips. Long sunny days, warm evenings, and a relaxed holiday mood all come together to create a festive season that’s a little different – in the best possible way.
Travelling by motorhome gives you the freedom to explore the country on your terms, without the stress of hotel bookings or crowded holiday spots. Whether you’re keen to unwind by the beach, catch a local carol evening or enjoy a barbecue with fellow travellers, it’s all within easy reach.
Ready to start planning? Book your maui campervan online today and make this Christmas one to remember.
FAQS
How do you say Merry Christmas in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, you’ll often hear Meri Kirihimete — this is how you say Merry Christmas in te reo Māori, one of New Zealand’s official languages.
What is the Christmas tradition in New Zealand?
Christmas in New Zealand is all about summer holidays, relaxed gatherings and time spent outdoors. Traditional elements like Christmas trees and gift-giving are common, but they’re often paired with beach days, barbecues and seasonal produce like fresh seafood and stone fruit.
Where is the best place to spend Christmas in New Zealand?
That depends on what kind of holiday you’re after. For beachside barbecues and a laid-back feel, places like the Bay of Islands, Coromandel Peninsula, and Abel Tasman are popular choices. If you’re after a mix of mountains and festive buzz, Queenstown is a great option.
Is New Zealand RV-friendly?
Yes, New Zealand is well set up for campervan travel. There’s a good mix of holiday parks, DOC campsites and freedom camping areas around the country. Many campgrounds offer facilities like powered sites, kitchen areas and laundry. Just keep in mind that over the Christmas period, popular locations can book out early.
What is a traditional Christmas dinner in New Zealand?
A Kiwi Christmas dinner varies by household, but it often includes barbecued meats, seafood, salads, new potatoes, and fresh bread. Dessert might feature pavlova topped with summer berries, trifle or fresh fruit.