Hairdresser's love for Christmas sees her give to others

From left, Nat Wheeler, Keller Wheeler, 9 months, and Bev Wheeler with Rachael McIsaac. Photo/Stephen Parker

The Salon owner Beverly Wheeler reckons her love of Christmas probably comes from being a Pom.

"Living in the UK, the weather is so rubbish, Christmas is all you have got to look forward to," Wheeler said with a smile.

But even now living in New Zealand, she makes the most of Christmas every year - something which is evident as soon as you walk into her Hinemoa St salon.

The business is beautifully decorated with a life-sized Santa, reindeer and stylish Christmas decorations all topped off with an extra large white Christmas tree.

But for Wheeler, Christmas is not just about making a big deal of the occasion for her family, each year she also makes sure she gives what she can to charity.

This year the Rotorua Daily Post's Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army has benefited with donations of hair products as well as gift hampers with goodies for boys and girls.

"We are so fortunate to live here, it's hard to think there are some children who wake up on Christmas Day and don't even know it is Christmas. It's just so sad to even think about it.

"I like to just do what I can, it's our duty really."

Wheeler said some children had such few things to look forward to.

"I've have always loved Christmas and made a massive deal of it. It's just amazing seeing the children and keeping that little light going."