A Filipino Christmas in New Zealand
By Ricky Fernandez
Christmas in New Zealand is often associated with summer heat, beach outings and backyard barbecues. But for many Filipinos living in Aotearoa, the season still follows a familiar rhythm — one shaped by faith, family, food and traditions carried from home.
At the heart of a Filipino Christmas is faith. While the season has become increasingly commercial in many parts of the world, for Filipinos, Christmas remains a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This devotion is carried overseas through Simbang Gabi — the nine masses leading up to Christmas Day, traditionally celebrated at dawn. Across New Zealand, many Filipinos still gather and attend the nine Masses together, sharing prayer and food to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Filipinos are also known for having the longest Christmas season in the world, with celebrations beginning as early as September — the well-known “Ber” months. Even in New Zealand, many Filipino households quietly slip into Christmas mode long before December arrives. Filipino Christmas songs fill living rooms, with Jose Mari Chan’s Christmas in Our Hearts often taking priority over global holiday hits. For Filipinos, the season isn’t rushed — it’s meant to be savoured.
Food remains one of the strongest links to home. The smell of bibingka and puto bumbong instantly brings back memories of church courtyards in the Philippines. In New Zealand, these beloved treats are often found at Filipino stores, community events, or church gatherings during Simbang Gabi. On Christmas Eve, many families still gather for Noche Buena — a late-night feast after midnight Mass — featuring favourites like lechon, ham, queso de bola, and sweet desserts shared well into the night.
Among the most recognisable symbols of a Filipino Christmas is the Parol. While Christmas trees are common in New Zealand homes, more Filipino families are adding parols to their decorations — hanging in windows, on balconies, or beside the tree. More than just a lantern, the parol symbolises the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Wise Men to the manger where Jesus was born.
For many Filipinos in New Zealand, Christmas can also be bittersweet — marked by video calls with loved ones back home and celebrations across different time zones. Yet despite the distance, the Filipino Christmas always finds a way to feel whole.
Maligayang Pasko sa inyong lahat!
Celebrations of the Filipino community extend outside of the festive season. 2026 is set to welcome two of NZ’s BIGGEST-ever Filipino events:
- Auckland Halo Halo Festival on March 28th at Auckland Showgrounds (217 Green Lane West, Epsom) Free entry.
- The Grand Annual Philippine Independence Day Commemoration on June 6th at Auckland Showgrounds (217 Green Lane West, Epsom) Free entry.
Email info@include.co.nz or call 027 7888 090 to book an exhibition booth or food stall.
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Reach out on info@include.co.nz or call 0277888090 to access the 2026 Media Kit.
