The Pōhutukawa Christmas Tree

Written and Illustrated by Steven Kay

  • The Pōhutukawa Christmas Tree was published in 2024 by the wonderful team at Bateman Books. It was warmly received and spent several weeks in the top ten New Zealand children's and young adult book list.

    This story is my way of sharing the magic of a summer Christmas in Aotearoa with my son—who was born and raised in Tokyo. It’s also a love letter to my homeland and to the cherished memories of my own childhood.

    Praise for The Pōhutukawa Christmas Tree

    “A sweet story for all of us who cherish our summer Christmases. Author Steven Kay captures our beautiful Christmas tree in all its summer glory, while also exploring the theme that Christmas isn't the only day that brings a gift.”

    — NZ Booklovers

    “With the NZ Christmas setting of blue skies, a sandy beach and native birds singing in the trees, this perfectly captures a kiwi summer countdown to Christmas.”

    — What Book Next

    “The Pōhutukawa Christmas Tree is a heartwarming, festive tale that inspires tamariki to explore and appreciate the natural world around them.”

    — TSTNZ