The Pohutukawa: New Zealand’s Christmas Tree in Bloom — and the Inspiration Behind Our Jewellery

A Symbol of Strength, Beauty, and Aotearoa Itself

The Pohutukawa has long held a special place in New Zealand culture. Its twisting branches cling to sea-sprayed cliffs, its roots grip hard into stone, and its scarlet blooms arrive just in time for Christmas. Every summer, families gather beneath its shade, picnicking, swimming, and celebrating the holidays.

For many New Zealanders, the Pohutukawa represents:

• Resilience — thriving in rugged places where few trees can survive.

• Heritage — woven into Māori stories of journeying, guardianship, and remembrance.

• Joy — its brilliant red flowers signalling the start of the holiday season.

It’s a tree that evokes both emotion and identity.

How the Pohutukawa Inspired Wildside Gifts

At Wildside Gifts, we are proud to design jewellery that reflects the heart of New Zealand — the birds, plants, landscapes, and symbols that make our home so unique. Naturally, the Pohutukawa was one of the first inspirations for our jewellery collection.

Its delicate brush-like flowers, vibrant colour, and distinctive leaves translate beautifully into metalwork. Our designers spent time sketching the curved leaf shapes, the airy structure of the stamens, and the soft bowls of the flower heads, aiming to capture both the energy and elegance of the real tree.

The result: sterling silver Pohutukawa jewellery that feels like wearing a piece of summer.

Crafted in Sterling Silver With Thoughtful Details

Our Pohutukawa pieces — from studs to pendants — are crafted in 925 sterling silver, with optional touches of gold plating to reflect the warm glow of the flower tips. Every line is intentional:

• The sweeping curves of the leaves mirror their natural shape.

• The clustered stamens reflect the soft explosion of colour you see on the tree.

• The organic textures echo the rugged coastline where Pohutukawa flourish.

These pieces aren’t simply accessories — they are wearable reminders of beach days, summer road trips, and Christmases spent with loved ones.

Why People Love Giving (and Wearing) Pohutukawa Jewellery

Because the Pohutukawa is so deeply associated with summer and celebration, our designs are especially popular as:

• Christmas gifts

• New Zealand travel mementos

• Gifts for Kiwis living overseas

• Meaningful symbols of home

They carry a story — and that’s what makes them truly special.

A Gift of Aotearoa

When you choose a Pohutukawa piece from Wildside Gifts, you’re choosing more than jewellery. You’re choosing a symbol of New Zealand’s festive season, its coastal beauty, and its enduring spirit.

Our mission has always been to honour the natural world around us, and the Pohutukawa — with all its strength and splendour — continues to inspire us year after year.