When much of the world dreams of a “white Christmas” covered in snow, here in Hawke’s Bay we dream in colour. Specifically, in the vibrant crimson of our native flowers and the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean.
If you’re visiting us this December, you’re about to experience something truly unique: a Summer Christmas in Napier.
Forget the heavy coats, freezing winds, and nights by the fire. In New Zealand, the festive season marks the beginning of our long, sunny summer days. And nothing signals the arrival of this joyous time quite like the blooming of the pōhutukawa tree. Often called the New Zealand Christmas Tree, this magnificent species puts on a spectacular show just in time for the holidays, painting our coastline with brilliant red flowers that look like natural decorations.
The Legend of the Pohutekawa
The pōhutukawa is much more than a beautiful tree; it’s a symbol of celebration and strength.
For Māori, it holds deep spiritual significance, with stories that link its fiery red blossoms to courage, remembrance, and the connection between earth and sky. For locals and visitors alike, the first sight of those bright red flowers means one thing: summer has officially arrived.
Unlike the pine trees of the Northern Hemisphere – cut down and brought inside – our Christmas tree is best enjoyed outdoors, under the sun, with a gentle sea breeze. Its roots cling stubbornly to rocky cliffs and headlands, reflecting the resilience of our land – a resilience that resonates strongly in Napier, a city rebuilt from the ground up after the 1931 earthquake.
Art Deco and Crimson Blooms: A Photographer’s Dream
One of the most striking things about a Summer Christmas in Napier is the way architecture and nature blend together.
Napier is world-renowned as the Art Deco Capital, famous for its pastel façades, clean lines, and geometric shapes from the 1930s. In December, these architectural gems are framed by the explosion of red pōhutukawa blossoms lining the streets and Marine Parade.
It’s a view you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
To really appreciate this mix of history and nature, it helps to explore the city with someone who knows its stories. On our Highlights Plus Tour, we take you through Napier’s most iconic streets, lookouts and waterfront spots, where the vintage style of the city meets the vibrant colours of the season. It’s the perfect opportunity to capture that postcard-perfect photo of your holiday in Hawke’s Bay.
A Toast to the Season: Wine and Sunshine
A Kiwi Christmas lunch is rarely a formal indoor affair. More often, it’s a barbecue at the beach, a long lunch in the garden, or a picnic at a vineyard.
Hawke’s Bay is recognised as one of the Great Wine Capitals of the World, and the vineyards are at their most beautiful in December. The vines are lush and green, the air is warm, and in many places you’ll see pōhutukawa flowering nearby – a stunning backdrop for a relaxed wine tasting.
If you want to celebrate the holidays like a local, you need to taste what our region produces. On our Wine Capitals Tour, you can immerse yourself in this wine heritage. Imagine sipping a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a rich Syrah while soaking up the summer sun. That easy, unhurried feeling is the true essence of a Summer Christmas in Napier.
Arriving by Sea? The Perfect Shore Excursion
December is also peak cruise season in New Zealand. Many visitors first see Napier from the deck of a ship as it glides into our sheltered bay, cliffs and hills tinged with red from blooming pōhutukawa.
If you only have a few hours ashore, every minute counts.
Our Napier Shore Excursions are designed especially for cruise passengers who want a premium, small-group experience. We meet you at the Port of Napier and make sure you see the very best of the region without worrying about the time. From Art Deco highlights and panoramic lookouts to those iconic red-flowering trees, we create an itinerary that fits your ship’s schedule and guarantees you’re back on board with time to spare.
Tailoring Your Holiday Experience
Every traveller is different.
Some visitors want to dive deep into Napier’s Art Deco history; others prefer scenic routes out towards Te Mata Peak, with wide open views stretching towards the Pacific Ocean. And some simply want to find their perfect pōhutukawa tree for a holiday photo and a quiet moment in the shade.
With our Private Tour options, you have the freedom to design your ideal day. Whether you’d like to:
- Focus on history and architecture,
- Explore wineries and local flavours,
- Chase the best viewpoints and photo stops, or
- Find a secluded coastal spot for a festive toast,
we’ll work with you to create a memorable Summer Christmas experience that feels truly yours.
Ready for Your Summer Christmas?
Visiting Hawke’s Bay in December offers a refreshing twist on traditional holiday celebrations. It’s a time of warmth, long days, outdoor adventures and breathtaking natural beauty.
The sight of the pōhutukawa in full bloom against a clear blue sky is something many people never forget.
So pack your sunglasses instead of a scarf, swap hot chocolate for a chilled local wine, and get ready to experience the festive season in a whole new way.
We look forward to welcoming you to a magical Summer Christmas in Napier.