Renee Wright has been crazy about Christmas ever since she was a child, but now she’s a mum to four little elves herself, the festive season feels more magical than ever.
Seeing the excitement and joy on the faces of Leonardo, 12, Giselle, 10, Arabella, seven, and 17-month-old Lucciana is what this time of year is all about, says the TVNZ weather presenter.
And as she welcomes Woman’s Day into the home she shares with husband Charlie Waide on Auckland’s North Shore, it’s clear that Christmas has well and truly arrived, with the broadcaster’s beachside sanctuary stunningly transformed into a shimmering, shining wonderland.
Not one but three lavishly decorated trees adorn the house, life-sized reindeer twinkle with fairy lights and visitors are met in the hall by a charming miniature Christmas village overseen by two ornamental Santas.
“There’s no such thing as too many Christmas decorations,” laughs Renee, 42. “I just love it when the house is illuminated. We don’t bother turning any lights on at night because we have so many fairy lights twinkling away everywhere.
“And I swear the kids love all this just as much as I do – they even have a miniature tree each in their bedrooms. Charlie pretends he’s not so into it, but he was there hanging up baubles with Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé blaring in the background. He secretly loves it!”
Renee’s fondness for all things festive began in childhood, with her parents Marian and Warren instilling beautiful traditions.
This story is from the December 10, 2023 edition of Woman’s Day Magazine NZ.
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This story is from the December 10, 2023 edition of Woman’s Day Magazine NZ.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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