Christmas Day Hours and Availability

Key Takeaways

• Most retail shops are closed on Christmas Day in New Zealand, with some exceptions such as petrol stations and pharmacies.
• Some food options are available, including select KFC stores, McDonald’s, Domino’s, Pizza Hut, and local takeaways and fish and chip shops.
• Public transport operates on a reduced timetable, but Ubers and taxis are available, albeit potentially more expensive.
• Major airports are open, and some restaurants and cafes offer special Christmas menus, although a 15% public holiday surcharge may apply.
• Some entertainment options, such as movies and church services, are available on Christmas Day.

Introduction to Christmas Day Hours
By now, for many of us, the presents will be wrapped and the groceries bought. But for those who need a last-minute gift or a dash to the supermarket, you may be in luck. While many places close their doors on Christmas Day, there are a few exceptions. Christmas Day is one of four restricted trading days in New Zealand, meaning almost all retail shops will be closed. However, there are some exceptions and alternatives available for those who need them.

Last-Minute Gift Options
If you’re desperate for a last-minute gift, there are a few options available. Petrol stations are generally open as an essential service, and many of them stock small gift items like chocolates, gift cards, and novelty items. The same goes for pharmacies, which often hold gifts like candles and skincare sets. However, it would pay to check holiday hours first to ensure that these establishments are open and have the items you need. It’s also worth noting that these options may be limited, so it’s best to have a backup plan in case you can’t find what you’re looking for.

Food Options on Christmas Day
If you can’t be bothered cooking, or your Christmas dinner turned out to be a disaster, you’re in luck as there are a few food options available. Most major supermarkets, including Woolworths, New World, and Pak’nSave, are closed on Christmas Day. However, dairies and fruit shops are allowed to stay open, and some may have limited hours or special holiday menus. If you’re in the mood for fast food, select KFC stores, McDonald’s, Domino’s, and Pizza Hut will be open on Christmas Day. Additionally, local takeaways and fish and chip shops are also allowed to open, but it’s best to check their hours ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Dining Out on Christmas Day
For a sit-down lunch or dinner, a 15% public holiday surcharge may apply at restaurants and cafes. However, it can be well worth going out for the day, as some restaurants even serve up special multi-course Christmas menus, complete with Christmas pudding. These menus can be a great way to enjoy a stress-free Christmas meal with family and friends. It’s best to book ahead of time, as many restaurants may have limited seating and special holiday hours.

Bottle Shops and Alcohol Sales
If you need your Christmas Day tipple, it’s a good idea to stock up early as no takeaway alcohol is sold or supplied on Christmas Day. This means that you won’t be able to purchase alcohol from bottle shops or other retail outlets, so it’s essential to plan ahead and buy what you need before Christmas Day. This restriction applies to all types of alcohol, including beer, wine, and spirits.

Getting Around on Christmas Day
Public transport will be operating on a reduced timetable on Christmas Day. During public holidays, bus and ferry services tend to run on weekend timetables. It is best to check your local council’s website for the holiday timetable to plan your trip in advance. Ubers and taxis will also be available, although it may be harder and more expensive to secure a ride, as fewer drivers are expected to be working. Major airports are also open on Christmas Day, with flights operating as usual.

Things to Do on Christmas Day
Places providing services rather than goods can open on Christmas Day, such as hairdressers, although many will opt to close. It’s best to check opening hours ahead of time to avoid disappointment. A trip to the movies could be on the cards, as HOYTS Cinemas are open on Christmas Day at select cinemas in Auckland, Hamilton, and Christchurch. Churches throughout New Zealand will also be offering Christmas Masses and carol services, which can be a great way to get into the holiday spirit. These services can be a wonderful way to connect with others and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.