A Pukeko in a Ponga Tree

by Kingi M. Ihaka, Dick Frizzell (Illustrator)

New Zealand version of the 12 Days of Christmas, illustrated by Kiwi legend Dick Frizzell.

Genres: Christmas

31 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Carol She's So Novel꧁꧂ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember many Christmases with my husband's family singing this ditty (to the tune of 12 days of Christmas) with a lot more enthusiasm & gusto than tune! I was delighted to find that it was also a print book & illustrated by the legendary Kiwi artist Dick Frizzell, but a couple of the number choices (three flax kits) fell a little flat for me. But Frizzell's artwork really embraces Kiwiana & is always worth a look!

Reread & sang along to, with enthusiasm! Nine sacks of pipis now seems a little greedy though!

I'm trying to make reading this a Christmas tradition in our house!
Still really good fun!

Merry Christmas everyone & all the best for 2025!

[Amber Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Kiwi adaptation of a Partridge in a Pear Tree with a Maori focus.
Be aware of the 10 fish heads.
Added to my collection.