63 and free

So, we have noticed that Christmas is almost a non-event here. Seriously, there are next to no Xmas lights on houses or buildings, there is virtually no Christmas music on the radio or in public, and only rarely does one encounter a decorated Christmas tree.

Curiousity got the better of us tonight. We went out to celebrate Christmas Eve (the entire world is behind New Zealand in relative time) and ended up chatting with two of the ladies on staff (see below). They were kind enough to offer their opinions on the subject.

When one thinks about it, the reasons are quite logical. Firstly, it being the middle of their summer break, there are other priorities. Secondly, with such long days it is difficult to really get into the “lights” thing (no one is up at 10:00 p.m. to see them in the dark) . Thirdly, it’s just the ambience; no snow, palm trees, shorts & flip flops etc don’t jibe well with Hollywood Christmas.

Our traditions just don’t translate very well to the southern hemisphere.

For some reason we didn’t see that one coming…

Anywho, we loved our evening. Went to Stratosfare restaurant overlooking Rotorua. The gondola ride was gorgeous!

Then we somehow scored ringside seats for the best view in the area:

The buffet was obscenely good.

‘Scuse us…food coma…