In a festive message shared on social media the Prime Minister acknowledged it had been a tough year for some Kiwis, but said he was "really optimistic about our country".
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has shared a Christmas message with the country, acknowledging “2025 has been a tough year for some Kiwis”.
Luxon posted a video on his X social media account with the caption “Merry Christmas, New Zealand”.
“At this time of the year, it’s time to finally slowdown and to take a moment to be with the people who matter most: your family, your friends and your neighbours,” the video started.
“It’s time to get out and enjoy the sunshine, the barbecues, the sandy feet and the long drives. Those iconic things that make a Kiwi Christmas and a Kiwi summer so special to all of us.”
Luxon paid tribute to those who will work through the holiday period. “Over the coming week, I’m thinking about those in our defence force, our police, our frontline services and our emergency responders, and to those working in hospitals and aged care facilities and essential services.
“Can I just simply say thank you. Many of you are going to be working while the rest of us gather with our loved ones. I want to say thank you for what you’ve contributed this year, and thank you for keeping the country running over this Christmas-New Year period.”
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and radio host Mike Hosking exchange Christmas gifts every year. Photo / Cameron Pitney
The Prime Minister went on to acknowledge the challenges faced by some this year, saying “2025 has been a tough year for some Kiwis, and this Christmas may not be as joyous and easy to celebrate as previous ones”.
He went on to more positive points, speaking to areas where he considers the country has “made a lot of progress”.
Luxon closed the address with his hopes for the coming year.
“As we go into 2026, I’m really optimistic about our country and how we can grow and what we can achieve together.
“But until then, and from my family to yours, we wish every Kiwi a safe and peaceful and joyful Christmas. We hope you all have a fantastic summer break, come back refreshed, recharged and in good spirits for 2026.”
He signed off by saying “Merry Christmas, happy New Year, and enjoy a great Kiwi summer”.
This year, the family are spending the evening enjoying a casual picnic with Amanda Luxon’s side of the family.
The family recently told New Zealand Woman’s Weekly that on Christmas day they’ll have a family lunch with Christopher’s family, with the food taken care of by the Prime Minister’s brother, who is a chef.
