Four of the best: Places to go for Christmas lunch

The Mudbrick Restaurant on Waiheke Island. Photo / Jeff Brass

1. Hyatt Regency
With bubbles to start, a Christmas lunch buffet, an afternoon of entertainment for the kids and a visit from the fat guy himself, you can also give back ($5 goes to Make-A-Wish). Adults $99, kids (5-12) $50, under 5s free. From noon-2.30pm, to book phone (09) 355 8412

2. Mudbrick, Waiheke
Mudbrick Vineyard hosts a seven-course set menu for both lunch and dinner. Seatings are timed for the ferries, at noon or 6pm (take the 11am ferry for the first lunch). Adult set menu $140; children's menu $35. Beverages not included. To book phone (09) 372 9050

3. SkyCity
From a buffet lunch or dinner at SkyCity's Fortuna restaurant or The Observatory, a three-course set menu at Orbit Revolving Restaurant to a degustation lunch at dine by Peter Gordon, SkyCity has all the bases covered for Christmas dinner. Ph (09) 363 6000 for booking information.

4. The Langham
Here you can choose from an Italian four-course lunch or dinner at Barolo, buffet breakfast, lunch or dinner at the SBF Brasserie, or a pretty afternoon tea at the luxe lobby bar. Reservations are essential. Contact for different prices and sittings on (09) 300 2809 or email tlakl.festivities@langhamhotels.com. 4