Jolly good sorts! OUR CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

The local heroes tell why Variety and kindness is what they're celebrating

- Rebekah Hebenton

The holiday season should be one of the most magical days of the year, but many Kiwi families struggle to put food on the table, let alone buy presents for their kids.

So Matilda Green, Matt Heath and Leigh Hart have teamed up with Variety to encourage anyone with a few extra dollars to donate and help make the season festive for more people.

The trio chat to the Weekly about their favourite holiday memories and the true meaning of Christmas.

MATILDA GREEN

For more info or to donate, visit variety.org.nz For Untidy Podcast host Matilda, spending time with family has always been the best part of this time of year. One of her fondest holiday memories is simply playing games outside.

But in recent years, family has also become one of the biggest stressors. Both she and husband Art have divorced parents who are spread across the country, so balancing time with everyone can be complicated.

“Logistics have taken over the joy a little bit,” she admits. “We’re obsessed with making sure everything is even and our time is fairly split.”

Matilda, who has sponsored a Variety child for four years, knows that pales in comparison to figuring out how to feed your family. That is why she is extra motivated to support the charity’s seasonal appeal.

“If you're in a position to donate, you have the power to take stress off another family. That is such an incredible gift. Christmas is about helping those who need it.”

Growing up on Auckland’s Waiheke Island in the ’90s, the 35-year-old realised there were many children who didn’t have easy access to food or basic necessities.

It has always made her grateful for the life she has. Now she is a parent herself to Milo, six, Autumn, four, and Penelope, two, she wants to ensure they learn that same lesson and become generous people.