Christmas can mean different things to different people. For some, it is a religious holiday to mark the birth of Jesus Christ, for others it's a time to acknowledge Hine Raumati, the goddess of summer. For most people though, it's a time to connect with family and friends.
Whatever Christmas means to you, there is no doubt that the way we celebrate it looks very different to the way it was celebrated a generation or two ago.
Joy Anslow and Linda Hamilton are both residents at the Settlers Lifestyle Village in Auckland's Albany. At 91, Joy remembers the simplicity of war and post war Christmases in her native England while Linda has fond memories of Christmas picnics on Auckland's waterfront in the 1950s and 60s.
They speak to Mihingarangi about their memories of Christmas past - and share their tips for making great shortbread!
Linda Hamilton and Joy Anslow Photo: Settlers Lifestyle Village