From pavlova to lamb and BBQ prawns, how NZ Christmas dinner tells the story of who we are as a nation

Lamb is a popular choice here for the festive season.

Considering what might be on the table come December 25, Nikki Birrell reflects on changing Kiwi tastes.

Christmas dinner in New Zealand is more than just a meal, it’s a reflection of our cultural identity, history and evolving food traditions. From the classic pavlova to lamb on the barbecue, what we serve at the table speaks volumes about who we are as a nation.

New Zealand’s Christmas dinner is a unique blend of cultures, paired with a strong connection to seasonal produce.

Traditionally, Christmas here often mirrored the wintry feasts of the northern hemisphere, with roasted meats, potatoes, and rich puddings.

However, as Kiwis embraced their southern latitude, summer-friendly fare like barbecued seafood, fresh salads and tropical fruit has reshaped the festive table.

The pavlova, for instance, is a dessert that tells its own tale.

While often debated whether it’s Kiwi or Australian, this meringue-based treat topped with cream and kiwifruit has become a culinary icon here.

Pavlova is common on Kiwi Christmas tables. Photo / Getty Images

It symbolises New Zealand’s knack for taking global influences and making them its own. And there are endless variations to try, from toasted coconut and espresso pavlova to lemon curd and pomegranate rolled pav.

Our love for the outdoors also defines the way we celebrate Christmas.

For many, the idea of firing up the barbecue and enjoying lamb chops or king prawns under the sun captures the quintessential Kiwi summer.

Lamb, in particular, carries deep ties to New Zealand’s identity as a significant agricultural exporter. Once the backbone of the economy, lamb still holds a special place on holiday menus, embodying both nostalgia and national pride.

Accompanying the mains, fresh asparagus, new potatoes and a vibrant array of salads highlight New Zealanders’ affinity for local and seasonal produce.

The ease of access to such high-quality ingredients reflects a connection to the land that is central to the country’s culture.

Māori and Pacific traditions are increasingly woven into contemporary Christmas dinners.

Hāngī-style cooking is incorporated into celebrations, adding an earthy and communal touch.

Ingredients like kūmara and shellfish not only honour Māori kai but also showcase New Zealand’s unique culinary offerings.

Pacific influence is evident in dishes like ota ika (raw fish salad) or the inclusion of coconut cream in desserts.

These additions speak to the multiculturalism that shapes New Zealand’s national identity.

Movements like plant-based eating and sustainability are further reshaping what’s on the menu.

Younger generations are opting for vegan-friendly mains like nut roasts or even tofu glazed with mānuka honey, reflecting a global shift towards conscious consumption.

New Zealanders are also redefining tradition by focusing on simplicity and reducing waste.

At its core, a New Zealand Christmas dinner is an evolving snapshot of the nation itself – a place that cherishes its roots while continually adapting to the present.

Whether it’s a pavlova, a rack of lamb or a hāngī feast, the diversity on the table mirrors the diversity of the people gathered around it.

Herald contributor Nikki Birrell has worked in food and travel publishing for nearly 20 years. From managing your kitchen to cutting costs, she’s shared some helpful advice recently, including alcohol-free drinks to try this summer, elevating budget ingredients to restaurant-quality and how to plate food like a pro.