What is a Christmas ham?

A Christmas ham is a cured or cooked ham traditionally served during the Christmas period in New Zealand. It’s often enjoyed hot on Christmas Day or served cold over the following days for sandwiches, salads, and platters.

When should I buy a Christmas ham?

Many people buy their Christmas ham 1–2 weeks before Christmas. Whole hams keep well when stored correctly, and buying early helps avoid last-minute stress and limited availability closer to Christmas.

How long does a Christmas ham last in the fridge?

An unopened Christmas ham can last up to several weeks in the fridge, depending on the product and packaging. Once opened, ham should usually be consumed within 5–7 days and kept well covered to retain freshness.

Do I need to cook a Christmas ham?

Most Christmas hams are already cooked and can be eaten cold. Many people choose to glaze and heat their ham for extra flavour and presentation, but cooking is optional.