Kiwi Christmas: Aylie Wasiolek, Hannah Braddick, Grant Palmer and Michelle Palmer at Pollard Park

Anne-Maree Ham, along with her extended family and friends, enjoyed their Christmas lunch served with Marlborough sauvignon blanc sitting in the shade of trees at Pollard Park in Blenheim.

"It was a true Kiwi celebration," she said.

"When you work in an office, there is nothing nicer than getting into the outdoors."

Eleven-year-old Hannah Braddick, of Blenheim, said spending Christmas Day in the park was much better than at home, because the playground was handy and there were lots of children to play with.

For those on their own at Christmas, company, entertainment and a community Christmas dinner were provided at the Blenheim Elim Church.

About 120 diners were there to appreciate the meal of ham, chicken, new potatoes and vegetables prepared by Raupo Cafe owner Marcel Rood.

The food was plated up and brought to the table by volunteers.

Stephen and Natalie Naulls, of Blenheim, said they had attended the dinner for about six years. Since having a stroke, Mrs Naulls had lived in a rest home and because the couple had no relatives in Marlborough, they enjoyed the chance to celebrate alongside others.

Jillian Timms, of Blenheim, said she appreciated the effort put into the day.

She enjoyed her own company but loved socialising too, so sharing a table with others on Christmas Day was wonderful.

The dinner's chief organiser, Kevin Dickens, was joined by his wife Donnamarie and twins Joshua and Hannah, 7, for the meal.

At a busy time of year, co-ordinating the dinner was a big job so their family looked forward to relaxing when they got home, Mrs Dickens said.