Christmas Decor From The East

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31235, 6 December 1966, Page 2

Christmas Decor From The East

As the years go by, more New Zealanders are forsaking the traditional Christmas fare eaten in European countries for food more suitable for hot weather, but if the decorations in the shops are any indication, most Christchurch people are traditionalists when it comes to decorating their homes for the festive season.

However, it could be that people have no choice but to betraditionalists when it comes to decorations. A survey of five shops yesterday by “The Press” revealed plenty of decorations made in Japan and Hong Kong, and some from Britain and the U.S.A. hut none made in New Zealand. All were European or British in concept.

It appears that New Zealand manufacturers have yet to evolve decorations typical of the country, such as frosted footballs, beer bottles, racehorses and models of the TAB.

However, thanks to the imagination of Japanese and Hong Kong manufacturers, there is a much wider variety than in previous years. Wreaths, lights, glass balls and bells for the tree still form the basis of the decorations, but there are numerous tinsel novelty items which look most attractive. There is little evidence of the once popular crepe paper streamers, which in previous years were seen in nearly every home. They have been replaced by flame-proof coloured foil streamers and garlands.

Coloured strip tinsel hanging ornaments abound, as do wall decorations such as bells hung on “silver” ball chains. Prices range from 6d for candles moulded in the shape of angels, snowmen, reindeer and pixies to 40s for a candelabra containing 12 candles in the shape of a tree. Green plastic fir trees, mounted on tripods, are available for about 39s 6d, and frosted yule logs, complete with cones, bells, red ribbon and candle for about 37s 6d.

The most popular colours for decorations are silver, white, red, green, blue, pink, lemon and gold, with a sprinkling of bronze tonings. Japan has also provided a Christmas door bell for 7s lid. Falling from a gold leaf with bells and ribbon are four

red strips, each with a letter making up the word “Noel.” From each strip hangs a gold bell.

Also from Japan are satin straw balls, birds, and snowmen. Hong Kong has sent small plastic nativity scenes for Is 6d. For those who are feeling nostalgic for snow a can of snow spray for 5s lid will provide the white atmosphere necessary for a “real” Christmas.

Although wrapping paper for gifts is similar to last year there is an almost overwhelming abundance of ribbon in all colours. Some ribbon has a lace-look and other types come in three toning colours In stripes. Bows in small and large sizes and in all the colours of the rainbow are in plentiful supply to give that professional touch to gifts.