The Pohutukawa — New Zealand’s Christmas Tree
- Sandy Ruegg Thepthong
- Dec 19, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
In Aotearoa New Zealand, Christmas does not arrive with snow and evergreens, but in sunshine, salt air, and brilliant red blossoms. Along coastlines and in warm northern regions, the pōhutukawa bursts into bloom just as the festive season begins — earning it the much-loved name “New Zealand’s Christmas tree.”
The Pōhutukawa: A Tree of Summer and Celebration
The pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is a native coastal tree known for its strong, twisting trunk and its spectacular crimson flowers. Flowering from late November through January, its vibrant colour has become inseparable from Kiwi Christmas imagery — appearing in cards, songs, artwork, and childhood memories of beach holidays and long summer evenings.
Where other parts of the world decorate fir trees indoors, in Aotearoa the pōhutukawa stands proudly outdoors — alive, rooted, and blooming, reminding us that Christmas here is a celebration of light, warmth, and nature in full expression.
Deep Roots in History and Culture
Long before it became a Christmas symbol, the pōhutukawa was deeply valued for its strength, resilience, and connection to the land. Growing along rugged coastlines, it is shaped by wind and salt, yet endures for centuries — some trees are believed to be over a thousand years old.
The tree has long held cultural significance for Māori, associated with protection, transition, and the natural cycles of life. Its roots often grip cliffs and rocky ground, symbolising grounding, endurance, and the deep connection between land, sea, and people.
Pōhutukawa must have made a monumental impact on the early Polynesian explorers. It would have been one of the first trees they saw in this new land, gripping the coastline with tentacle-like roots. One Māori tradition holds that when the captains of the Tainui waka arrived in New Zealand and saw the red blossoms of pōhutukawa, they believed them to be flocks of red-feathered birds. In their excitement, they cast their prized red-feathered headdresses into the ocean (ref. "The Meaning of Trees", by Robert Vennell).
Today, the pōhutukawa continues to remind us of the importance of respecting native plants, protecting coastal environments, and honouring the wisdom held in Aotearoa’s natural heritage.
Taxonomy of the Pōhutukawa
Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) belongs to the Metrosideros genus, which includes the northern and southern rata, as well as a number of climbing rata vines. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, which also includes feijoa and eucalyptus, known for their similar red flowers with bundles of protruding stamens.
Traditional Uses of Pōhutukawa
Historically, different parts of the pōhutukawa were valued for their practical and healing properties. The bark was known for its astringent qualities, and preparations were traditionally used in ways that reflected a deep understanding of plant strength and balance.
In modern natural skincare, pōhutukawa is appreciated for similar reasons — particularly for supporting and caring for the skin, especially when it has been exposed to sun, wind, and the elements. When sustainably and respectfully sourced, it offers a beautiful bridge between traditional knowledge and contemporary botanical care.
Pōhutukawa and Summer Skincare
A New Zealand summer is a time of swimming, sun, travel, and outdoor living — joyful, but also demanding on the skin. Salt water, sun exposure, and dry air can leave skin feeling depleted.
Botanicals inspired by pōhutukawa are well suited to this season, supporting nourishment, comfort, and balance. When combined with gentle plant oils and other natural ingredients, they help restore softness and resilience — echoing the tree’s own ability to thrive in challenging coastal conditions.
A Living Symbol of a Kiwi Christmas
What makes the pōhutukawa such a beloved Christmas tree is not only its timing or colour, but what it represents:
Summer and light
Resilience and strength
Connection to place
Celebration rooted in nature
It invites us to celebrate Christmas not by escaping nature, but by being part of it — barefoot on warm sand, sharing food outdoors, and caring for ourselves and one another with intention.
A Christmas Reflection
At Sanflora Wellbeing, the pōhutukawa is a source of inspiration — a reminder that skincare can be both gentle and powerful, deeply rooted yet beautifully expressive.
This Christmas, may the pōhutukawa remind you to slow down, soak in the sunshine, and honour the land that supports us. May your holidays be filled with warmth, connection, and moments of true wellbeing — for body, heart, and soul.
Embracing Nature's Gifts
As we gather with loved ones this festive season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the beauty of nature surrounding us. The pōhutukawa stands as a testament to the resilience of life, thriving in the face of adversity. It teaches us to embrace our own journeys, to find strength in our roots, and to celebrate the vibrant connections we share with each other and our environment.
Incorporating natural elements into our holiday traditions can enhance our sense of wellbeing. Consider using locally sourced decorations, such as dried pōhutukawa flowers or native foliage, to bring a touch of our unique landscape into our homes. These small gestures can create a deeper connection to the land and remind us of the beauty that exists in our everyday lives.
Mindful Self-Care During the Holidays
The holiday season can often feel overwhelming, with its flurry of activities and expectations. It’s essential to carve out time for ourselves amidst the hustle and bustle. Practicing mindful self-care can help ground us and bring joy back into our lives.
Take a moment each day to connect with nature, whether it’s a walk on the beach, a hike through the bush, or simply sitting under a tree. Allow the sights, sounds, and scents of the natural world to rejuvenate your spirit.
Incorporating natural skincare products, like those inspired by the pōhutukawa, can also enhance your self-care routine. These products not only nourish your skin but also serve as a reminder of the beauty of our native flora.
Creating Lasting Memories
As we celebrate this festive season, let’s focus on creating lasting memories with our loved ones. Share stories, laughter, and love as we gather around the table, enjoying the fruits of our labour and the warmth of each other’s company.
Consider starting new traditions that honour the spirit of the pōhutukawa. Perhaps a family picnic under the tree, or a beach day where you can all appreciate the beauty of our surroundings. These moments will become cherished memories, reminding us of the importance of connection and celebration.
In this season of giving, let’s also remember to give back to the land that sustains us. Participate in local conservation efforts or support initiatives that protect our native flora and fauna. By nurturing our environment, we ensure that future generations can also enjoy the beauty of Aotearoa.
Conclusion: A Season of Connection and Wellbeing
As we embrace the festive season, let’s carry the spirit of the pōhutukawa in our hearts. May it inspire us to celebrate life, nurture our connections, and honour the natural world around us.
This Christmas, let’s commit to integrating mindful, plant-based self-care rituals into our daily lives. By doing so, we not only enhance our own wellbeing but also contribute to the health of our planet.
Wishing you all a joyful and fulfilling holiday season, filled with love, laughter, and the vibrant spirit of the pōhutukawa.
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