It’s December already! Christmas is just around the corner! 🎉 Did you know we also have Simbang Gabi here in New Zealand? 😍
My Simbang Gabi Experience in Nelson
When I moved to Nelson from Auckland, I felt so blessed to be invited by a couple I met at church to attend Simbang Gabi. At that time, I wasn’t driving yet—it took me a while to get back to driving after my car accident because I felt a bit traumatized. They offered to pick me up, and I was so grateful!
Now, we’ve become good friends. 😍 After the mass, we had a salo-salo (gathering) with Pinoy food that we shared with some Kiwis. Honestly, even though I’ve been in New Zealand for a long time, I hadn’t attended Simbang Gabi until then. I really missed it, remembering how we celebrate Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo back in the Philippines.
That experience made me think—why not organize this in our community? It’s a great way to welcome new people, create new friendships, and bring back the Christmas vibes we all grew up with. I feel so grateful to meet new friends through the Filipino community here in Nelson, New Zealand.
Isn’t it amazing?
Creating a Sense of Home
Maybe we can offer rides too, so everyone can come together this Christmas. Our community is also sharing posters for Simbang Gabi around New Zealand, which is exciting.
We all know Christmas in the Philippines is way more fun and busy with family. As early as September, we start decorating! That’s not really a Kiwi practice—they don’t decorate that early. But as Pinoys, we bring that joyful spirit wherever we are.
Let’s Celebrate Together
If you know someone new in New Zealand, invite them to join Simbang Gabi! Or if someone needs a ride, why not offer to help? Christmas is always better when we’re together.
This tradition lets us celebrate the true spirit of Christmas: giving, friendship, and faith. It’s a beautiful way to share a piece of home with our community here.
Merry Christmas, everyone! Let’s make this season extra special. 🎄💖
