With Christmas just around the corner, here are a few simple ideas to help make the holiday season run more smoothly and give you a bit more time to actually enjoy it.
1. Let go of the gift guilt
December always seems to arrive out of nowhere, and before you know it you’re juggling gift lists, food prep and sorting out spare bedding for visiting whānau. But Christmas is still a holiday and you deserve a break too.
One easy way to reduce the pressure is to ditch the idea of buying for everyone you’ve ever met. Focus on the people you truly want to give to and stop feeling guilty about the rest. With the cost of living still biting for many Kiwi households, simplifying your list can make the season much lighter on your wallet and your time.
2. Budgets are your best friend
A quick spending plan can save you from a blown-out credit card come January. Set a limit per person, stick to it and shop with that in mind. Not only will you avoid overspending, but you’ll also avoid hours wandering the shops wondering whether you should splurge.
3. Match the number of gifts for kids
If you’re hosting Christmas with multiple children, it pays to coordinate with other parents so everyone gets the same number of presents. Kids don’t usually worry about value, but they definitely notice if someone else gets one more parcel to open! A little adult planning now means fewer meltdowns later.
4. Go retro and shop second-hand
A great Kiwi tradition is hunting for treasures in local opshops or vintage stores. You can find quirky, well-loved items at fantastic prices, perfect for creative gifters or those hard-to-shop-for family members. Plus, it’s sustainable and supports local charities.
5. Shop online to save time
If your schedule is packed or you’re trying to keep gifts hidden from curious kids, online shopping is a lifesaver. Order from the comfort of your couch and have everything delivered straight to your door. No carparks, no queues, no stress.
6. Share the Christmas kai
If you spend most of the day cooking, it can start to feel like a second job. Make it easier by planning the menu early or turning the day into a shared pot-luck. Alternatively, fire up the barbie – it’s summer, after all – and let people bring salads, desserts or drinks so you’re not stuck doing it all.
7. Enlist the kids
Decking out the house and tree doesn’t have to fall on your shoulders. Get the kids involved by turning it into a fun challenge, who can make the best homemade decoration or help set up the fastest? Even small hands can make a big dent in the workload.
8. Simplify the wrapping
After gifts are opened, Kiwi lounges can quickly turn into a sea of scrunched paper and opened boxes. Instead of spending money on wrap that ends up in the bin, try reusable sacks, baskets or Christmas-themed pillowcases for each child. They look great, last for years and help contain the mess.
9. Keep an eye on the drinks
Most families have at least one relative who gets a bit over-enthusiastic with the festive beverages. To keep things running smoothly, have one adult keep an eye on the pours and make sure everyone’s also getting food and water. Everyone should get to enjoy the day, including you as the host.
10. Skip the dishes
Nobody wants to face a mountain of dishes after Christmas lunch. If you’d rather put your feet up, consider using compostable or recyclable plates and cutlery. You’ll dramatically cut down on cleanup without filling the rubbish bin.
When you’re hosting, it’s easy to feel like you need everything to be perfect. But Christmas is about spending time with the people you care about ,not running yourself ragged. Let others help, do what works for you, and make space to actually enjoy the day. After all, it’s your holiday too.
Share
