Christmas in New Zealand has a completely different rhythm.
While the rest of the world wraps itself in winter magic, here the days grow long, the ocean sparkles, and the air feels like holidays at the beach. And then—right on cue—the pohutukawa trees burst into full, fiery bloom.
I still remember my first summer in Aotearoa.
Driving along the coast, seeing those vibrant red blossoms glowing against the blue sky… I was mesmerised. As a flower lover (you can see it in almost everything I create 😄🌺), the pohutukawa stole my heart instantly.
For many Kiwis it’s a Christmas icon, and I fully understand why.
It’s joyful, bold, and full of life—the perfect symbol for summer celebrations.
And of course… it slowly started weaving its way into my art.
🌺 How Pohutukawa Found Its Place in My Work
In my studio this month, you’ll find tiny flashes of red everywhere.
A delicate petal here, a little shimmer of silk there… the pohutukawa mood just takes over!
You’ll see it in:
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silk & merino shawls touched with soft red floral accents
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light summer scarves inspired by the coastline where pohutukawa trees bloom
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wool paintings capturing that magical contrast of crimson flowers and deep blue ocean
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felted soaps wrapped in merino wool with tiny flower motifs
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…and even a few festive surprises I’m preparing ✨
It’s my way of celebrating this beautiful place I now call home — this mix of summer, sea breeze, and Christmas that still makes me laugh a little. December with sunshine? My European heart still can’t quite believe it 🤣😍
But every time I see that brilliant pohutukawa red, I feel the same joy:
This is New Zealand. This is Christmas here. And it’s beautiful.
I can’t wait to share some photos of my latest pohutukawa-inspired pieces.
Let the festive colours bloom! 🌺✨
🎁 Gift-ready – a perfect present with meaning and heart
👉 Ready to Make It Yours?
View and buy Pohutukawa Shawl: click here
View and buy Pohutukawa Scarf: click here
View and buy Pohutukawa Wall Art: click here
View and try to create in my workshop: click here
View and buy on Etsy: click here
Every piece I make tells a story. This one began with a bird on a windy morning — a flash of iridescent blue-green and a curious song that wouldn’t leave my head.
🔗 Like this story?
This is part of my series “Inspired by New Zealand” — a collection of short stories about the moments, landscapes and living things that shape my work.