10 Kiwi Holiday Traditions to Share with Your Nanny

The holiday season is a special time in New Zealand, filled with unique traditions that reflect the country’s laid-back vibe and diverse culture. From sunny beach days to festive meals and cultural events, there are countless ways to celebrate with family and friends. If you have a nanny, inviting them to share in these holiday traditions can create a stronger bond with your family, helping them feel part of the seasonal traditions and experience. 

Here are ten Kiwi holiday traditions to enjoy with your nanny, making the festive season extra special for everyone.

1. Christmas at the Beach

In New Zealand, Christmas means summer, and no Kiwi holiday season is complete without a trip to the beach. Whether it’s a full beach day or an afternoon picnic, this is a laid-back way to kick off the holidays.

How to Include Your Nanny: Invite your nanny to join in the beach festivities, bring along some classic Kiwi treats like L&P and fish and chips, play beach cricket, and enjoy a swim together (if it's warm enough!). This is a fun, casual way for your nanny to feel like part of the family.

2. Pōhutukawa Tree Decorating

The pōhutukawa, with its vibrant red flowers, is New Zealand’s own Christmas tree and symbol of the holiday season. Many families incorporate this beautiful tree into their festive traditions by decorating a small one at home or visiting the coastlines where pōhutukawa bloom.

How to Include Your Nanny: Set up a mini pōhutukawa at home or make festive decorations with your kids and nanny. You could even go on a family outing to see the pōhutukawa trees in bloom along the coast—a simple yet beautiful tradition to share.

3. Santa Parades

Kicking off the Christmas season with a Santa Parade is a classic Kiwi tradition! From the big cities to small towns, local parades celebrate the season with colourful floats, festive music, and a visit from Santa himself.

How to Include Your Nanny: Plan to attend a local Santa Parade together. Let the kids bring their nanny along for the fun, and grab some photos to capture the day. Parades are also a fantastic way to get into the holiday spirit while celebrating as a community.

4. Christmas Lights Tour

Each year, neighbourhoods around New Zealand light up with impressive holiday displays. Some families make it a tradition to take an evening drive to see the most spectacular Christmas lights around town, with carols playing and festive snacks in tow.

How to Include Your Nanny: Invite your nanny to join for an evening Christmas lights tour. Pack some hot cocoa, play Christmas songs, and make it an event the kids will love. It’s a lovely way for your nanny to experience a Kiwi Christmas tradition and end the day on a festive note.

5. Summer BBQs

BBQs are an essential part of Kiwi summer life, and the holiday season brings even more reason to fire up the grill. From Christmas Eve gatherings to New Year’s celebrations, the summer BBQ is a must-do.

How to Include Your Nanny: Invite your nanny along to family BBQs and let them share in the festive food and fun. This relaxed setting is ideal for bonding and creating a family atmosphere. You could even have a go at grilling some unique Kiwi dishes together, like lamb skewers or mussels.

6. Boxing Day Cricket

Boxing Day is known as a day for sports and leisure, with many Kiwis enjoying cricket matches at home or watching the professionals on TV. It’s a laid-back tradition that families look forward to each year.

How to Include Your Nanny: Plan a backyard cricket game with the kids and their nanny, or invite them to watch a match with the family. Backyard cricket is a quintessential Kiwi activity, and sharing it with your nanny is a great way to bond over the summer.

7. New Year’s Fireworks

Celebrating the New Year with fireworks has become a much-anticipated event in cities and towns around New Zealand. Welcoming the New Year with family, friends, and a colourful display is a tradition that kids especially love.

How to Include Your Nanny: If you’re planning to watch a local fireworks display, invite your nanny along. Many families enjoy a picnic or BBQ beforehand, making it a full evening celebration. This is a perfect way for your nanny to be part of the joy and anticipation of New Year’s in a fun, family-friendly setting.

8. Summer Road Trips

Kiwi families love a good road trip, especially during the summer holidays. From beach towns to scenic hikes, road trips are a great way to explore New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and enjoy quality time together.

How to Include Your Nanny: If your nanny is keen, invite them along on a family day trip. You can explore somewhere nearby, like a local beach or nature trail, and pack a picnic to make it a day out. Road trips offer a relaxed, adventurous way to share experiences and create lasting memories.

9. DIY Pavlova

Pavlova is a Kiwi classic (and definitely not Australian!) and a dessert many families make together over the holiday season. Topped with fresh cream and summer fruits, it’s a treat that both kids and adults look forward to each year.

How to Include Your Nanny: Invite your nanny to join in the kitchen to help prepare a pavlova. Let the kids assist with adding toppings and decorating. Not only is this a fun activity, but it’s also a chance for your nanny to take part in a beloved Kiwi culinary tradition and maybe even learn a new recipe.

10. Waitangi Day Celebrations

Waitangi Day is an important public holiday in New Zealand, commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Celebrations often include local events, performances, and community gatherings.

How to Include Your Nanny: Attend a local Waitangi Day event together with your nanny and kids. This can be an educational opportunity for the children and a chance to appreciate New Zealand’s rich culture and history. Many communities hold cultural performances, storytelling, and art displays, perfect for a family outing with your nanny.

Make it a Summer to Remember

Including your nanny in Kiwi holiday traditions is a wonderful way to create a welcoming environment and make them feel part of the family. From sunny beach days and festive treats to local celebrations, these traditions allow for meaningful moments that strengthen bonds and create memories for everyone involved. Plus, sharing these experiences can make the season extra special for your kids, as they see their nanny as an integral part of their holiday celebrations.

At Pay The Nanny, we’re here to help families create meaningful connections with their nannies, so that they feel like more than just a helper, they feel like family. Looking for support over the holidays? Explore our services to learn more about how we can help make your nanny experience stress-free and enjoyable this festive season.