How to Prepare Your Home for Santa’s Visit

The festive season is upon us. Summer barbecues, pōhutukawa blooms, and backyard cricket signal the countdown to Christmas. But as you’re prepping for holiday cheer, don’t forget the most important guest of the season—Santa Claus himself!

Whether you’re in a cosy inner-city apartment or a sprawling Kiwi villa, a little preparation will ensure your home is Santa-ready. Follow this guide to make your place the highlight of his global journey (and maybe earn a spot on his “Nice List” next year).

Setting the scene outdoors

Reindeer-ready roof

Santa’s sleigh is enchanted, but even magic can use a little practical help. Inspect your roof for loose tiles, secure wobbly gutters, and trim any overhanging branches. Santa’s reindeer appreciate a smooth runway—after all, their journey begins right here in the Southern Hemisphere!

And don’t forget to check for summer debris, like fallen pōhutukawa flowers or bird nests, that might clutter up his landing space.

Chimney check or creative alternatives

If you’ve got a chimney, ensure it’s clean and sturdy. Cracks or loose bricks could be a hazard—not just for Santa but for your home’s safety too. If you don’t have a chimney (common in modern Kiwi homes), Santa won’t mind. A wide-open ranch slider or a well-lit balcony can be his point of entry. Add a friendly sign or some glittery arrows to guide him in style.

Deck the outdoors—but carefully

Festive light displays are a Kiwi tradition, but make sure they don’t become obstacles. Secure inflatable Santas, reindeer, and fairy lights away from roof edges or landing zones. After all, you wouldn’t want Rudolph getting tangled in fairy lights!

Creating the magic indoors

Soot-free and sleek

If Santa’s coming down the chimney, a quick clean will keep soot from spreading across your home. It also helps Santa maintain his signature red suit without any unexpected smudges.

For added safety, make sure the damper is open to avoid any “Santa gets stuck” scenarios.

Furniture protection

Santa’s boots are made for adventure, not delicate upholstery. Cover your furniture with throws or shift valuable items away from his pathway. A tidy living room not only keeps Santa moving efficiently but also prevents any late-night stumbles over Christmas toys or wayward decorations.

Stocking smarts

Stockings are a must for Santa’s visit, but think strategically about where you hang them. For homes without a mantel, consider sturdy hooks, festive baskets, or even draping them along the staircase. Santa’s magic works anywhere!

Special preparations for Kiwi apartments and chimney-free homes

Living in an apartment or a modern chimney-free townhouse? No worries—Santa’s flexible! Create a dedicated "Santa Station" near your Christmas tree. Decorate a small table with fairy lights, a festive cloth, and a basket for stockings. This helps Santa focus on the fun stuff (like delivering presents) without searching for where to leave them.

For those in high-rise apartments, consider adding a festive touch to your balcony or windowsill. It’s a perfect spot for Santa to spot your home from afar.

Treats for Santa and his crew

No Santa visit is complete without snacks! A pavlova slice or some fresh fruit alongside the classic milk and cookies could be a fun twist. And don’t forget the reindeer—leave out carrots, apple slices, or even a little bowl of water to keep them hydrated during their journey.

Pro tip: Keep snacks out of reach of curious pets or wildlife. We don’t want possums, birds, or the neighbour’s cat enjoying Santa’s treats before he arrives!

Post-visit cleanup tips

Christmas morning is magical, but Santa’s whirlwind visit can leave a trail of evidence. Check your living room for cookie crumbs or soot smudges near the fireplace. A sprinkle of baking soda or cornflour works wonders for carpet stains, while a damp cloth will handle marks on walls or mantels.

Outside, inspect your gutters and roof for stray ribbons or magical glitter from the sleigh. And if Santa’s reindeer left behind any “gifts” on the lawn, scoop them up and use them as fertiliser—your veggie patch will thank you!

Extra Kiwi magic: adding local flair

Want to stand out on Santa’s itinerary? Add a touch of Kiwi charm to your preparations. Decorate with native plants like pōhutukawa branches or ferns, and hang ornaments shaped like kiwi birds, jandals, or pavlovas. A little slice of New Zealand will make Santa’s visit extra memorable.

To ensure Rudolph doesn’t miss your home, sprinkle some “reindeer dust” (glitter mixed with oats) outside to guide him and the other reindeer to your home.

Wrap it all up

Whether you’re nestled in a city apartment or a countryside retreat, the key to a magical Santa visit is thoughtful preparation and a sprinkle of imagination. From reindeer-ready roofs to Kiwi-themed snacks, these are the ingredients to a memorable visit for Santa.

Meri Kirihimete and a magical Christmas to all!