A Pinoy Christmas Away from Home: How Parols Brought the Spirit of Pasko to New Zealand
There’s just something about seeing a parol light up a Kiwi night, right? ✨
For us Filipinos, that familiar glow instantly feels like home. It reminds us of Simbang Gabi, the famous bibingka and puto bumbong, and the laughter that fills every family gathering. Even if we’re miles away from the Philippines, the ilaw ng Pasko always finds its way here to New Zealand.
At Barrio, we’ve always believed that Christmas isn’t complete without that warm, glowing symbol of hope, the Filipino parol. It’s more than just decoration. It’s a piece of our story as Pinoys living abroad.
When the Capiz Parols Arrived (and Sold Out Fast!)
When we first introduced our 24” Capiz Parols, we just wanted to share a little piece of home with our fellow Filipinos. But wow, you didn’t just welcome them, you truly embraced them. In true Pinoy Christmas spirit, you brought the same excitement we all feel back home when the first Christmas lights go up.
Within weeks, sold out agad lahat! 💚Each Capiz Parol found a new home across New Zealand, from cozy Auckland flats to family homes in Christchurch, shining bright and proudly Pinoy.
Unfortunately, our big Capiz Parols are already sold out for this year. But don’t worry, Sukis! They’ll make their comeback next year, even brighter and more beautiful. You can already imagine them lighting up your homes again next holiday season.
Keeping the Liwanag Alive with Oh Craft
Oh Craft Heritage Mini Parol ($14.89)
Oh Craft Tradition Mini Parol Ornament ($11.89)
Just because the Capiz Parols are taking a short break doesn’t mean the liwanag has to fade. This year, we’ve kept the festive spirit alive with our NZ-made laser-cut mini parol ornaments, lovingly created by our sister brand Oh Craft.
Each piece is designed and handcrafted right here in New Zealand, blending modern craftsmanship with Filipino tradition. Two of our favourites are the Oh Craft Heritage Mini Parol Ornament and the Oh Craft Tradition Mini Parol Ornament. Both are crafted with intricate detail and inspired by the same spirit of Paskong Pinoy that brings our bigger Capiz Parols to life.
These mini parol ornaments make perfect gifts, Christmas tree decorations, or even thoughtful pasalubong for your loved ones. They might be smaller than the traditional parol, but they carry the same warmth and pride that remind us of home.
The Mini Parol Car Charms We All Love
Mini Christmas Parol - Car Charm ($45)
And of course, everyone’s favourite, the mini parol car charms. 🚗✨
These little treasures have become a Barrio Christmas staple. Every year, they sell out quickly, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you hang them on your rearview mirror or gift them to a friend, these charms bring a touch of Filipino cheer to every ride.
These tiny parols bring a touch of Filipino Christmas spirit to every drive and serve as a small reminder of home wherever the road takes you. It’s proof that even far from the Philippines, Pasko feels pa rin.
Thank You, Mga Suki!
As we welcome another festive season here in NZ, we just want to say maraming salamat, mga Suki! for always supporting us, sharing your stories, and letting us be part of your celebrations. You’ve turned our small dream of bringing Paskong Pinoy to New Zealand into a reality that keeps growing each year.
Until our Capiz Parols return next year, we hope you continue to light up your homes, trees, and even cars with our mini parol ornaments and mini parol car charms. Together, we’ll keep spreading the liwanag and saya of Christmas, keeping the spirit of Pasko away from home alive. 💚
Keep the liwanag ng Pasko shining wherever you are! 💚 Explore our full Christmas collection and bring a touch of Filipino warmth into your home, tree, or car this holiday season. Check here. #pinoychristmas #barrionz #parols