Christmas Planning
Make Christmas celebrations magical with festive décor, catering, and entertainment.
Planning Checklist Preview
Decide on hosting — home, bach, beach or work venue
3 months
Book venues, caterers or hire gear early (peak season)
3 months
Send invitations
1 month
Plan the menu — ham, pavlova, barbecue, salads
1 month
Organise Secret Santa and gifts
1 month
Order meat and seafood before the rush
2 weeks
Decorate the tree and table
1 week
Prep food and chill drinks
day before
DIY Ideas for Christmas Events
Helpful Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a Christmas party venue in New Zealand?
As early as you can. November and December are the busiest function period of the year, and the best venues and caterers are often fully booked by September or October. If you have a date and headcount in mind, securing the venue and catering first gives you the most choice.
What are good ideas for a Kiwi Christmas party?
New Zealand Christmas falls in summer, so outdoor and relaxed options work beautifully – think barbecues, garden parties, beach or park gatherings, and grazing tables. Festive DIY décor, a summer drinks station and outdoor games all suit the season. Our tutorials and supplier directory can help with both the DIY and the hired elements.
How can I cater a Christmas gathering affordably?
Shared or grazing-style catering, a barbecue, or a food truck are popular, budget-friendly options for summer. Ask guests to bring a plate for casual gatherings, or hire a caterer for larger or work events. Use the budget calculator to balance catering against the rest of your spend.
How do I request a quote from a supplier?
Open any supplier profile in our directory and use the “Request a Quote” form to send them your event date, guest numbers and what you need. Your enquiry goes straight to the business so they can reply with pricing and availability. It is free to enquire, and you can shortlist your favourites to compare later.