A Kiwi Christmas at Vineyard Cottages

It’s that magical time of year again, the pōhutukawa are blooming, the air is filled with the scent of summer, and here at Vineyard Cottages, the vines are basking under the golden sun. And boy is it hot!

While much of the world wraps up for winter, our Christmas in New Zealand is all about long sunny days, festive platters under the shade, and the laughter of whānau echoing through the countryside. And for me, there’s truly no better place to celebrate the season than here in our little patch of paradise.

December at the cottages is a special kind of beautiful. The vines are full and green, the birdsong is bright, and the evenings stretch on lazily, perfect for a glass of chilled local vino as the sun dips over the hills. We’ve hosted High Teas, Christmas Parties, 95th birthdays and of course lots of food and wine tours over the last month and the sun has shone on and on! I’m forever on water tank duty. For a girl from the UK, I shouldn’t have to be focusing on rain dances!

Guests often ask what makes Christmas here so special, and honestly, it’s the simplicity. Barefoot breakfasts on the deck, long chats under the trees, the scent of the BBQ drifting on the breeze… It’s the kind of Christmas you don’t need a holiday from.

We like to keep it low-key and heartfelt around the cottages, native greenery woven into wreaths, twinkling fairy lights strung across verandas, and the occasional festive touch (yes, there may be a cheeky Santa hat or two on a vineyard post!).

In the lodge however, we are treated to decorations made with love by the team from St John’s in Helensville who we support throughout the year. Once or twice a month they come and pick up a couple of boxes of goodies to take and feed the ambulance crews at Auckland Hospital. Sausage rolls and brownies are always a hit! And the wonderful Eve and John come and decorate the Lodge for us as a thank you. An annual treat!

If you’re joining us this season, we can help you add a few thoughtful extras to make your stay feel extra special a hamper of local treats, bubbles chilled and ready on arrival, or maybe a late afternoon picnic among the vines.

Here at VC, Christmas isn’t about the rush, it’s about slowing down, reconnecting, and making space for the people (and the things) that bring us joy. Whether you’re escaping the city for a few days, visiting from overseas, or simply soaking up the serenity of the countryside, we hope Vineyard Cottages feels like your summer sanctuary.

I’m heading home to the UK and the cold for 9 days for the first British Christmas with my family in 23 years! Very excited!!! But the brilliant team here will look after you.

So from my heart to yours, thank you for another beautiful year. We feel so lucky to welcome wonderful guests through our doors, and to share this slice of rural heaven with you all.

Have a safe, sunny, joy-filled Christmas. And don’t forget to pause, breathe in the warm breeze, and raise a glass to the simple pleasures.

Ngā mihi o te Kirihimete
With love,
Elle & the Vineyard Cottages whānau