Penguin's Christmas crackers

If it’s travelling to see family, sitting on a beach or simply getting away and having some me time, there’s nothing quite like a good book to accompany you over the holidays.

A is for Aotearoa by Diane Newcombe and Melissa Anderson Scott

A great book for the kids these Christmas holidays is the lift-the flap treasure hunt book A is for Aotearoa. This book is the perfect travel companion to keep the little ones entertained in the car or on the plane, or at home with the family! A is for Aotearoa takes you on a journey around New Zealand as you solve the clues to which New Zealand town is being described. It’s fun, interactive and will probably teach the adults a thing or two about New Zealand geography as well! Plus, the hand-drawn illustrations are absolutely beautiful.

City House, Country House by John Walsh and Patrick Reynolds

This has been described as the perfect book to hunker down on the couch or deckchair after Christmas lunch when you’re feeling full of festive food and ready to have some serious chill time. City House, Country House explores 40 of New Zealand’s most outstanding residential projects ranging from the intensely suburban to the spectacular remote, and is the perfect way to lose an hour surrounded by stunning architecture.

Road to Ruin: The Global Elite’s Secret Plan for the Next Financial Crisis By James Rickards

If you’re more one for eye-opening nonfiction books then Financial Analyst Jack Rickards’ new book Road to Ruin: The Global Elite’s Secret Plan for the Next Financial Crisis might be the book for you to indulge in over the holidays. The author’s unique insights and impeccable credentials enhances his convincing arguments around the global governments preparing for the next global financial crisis. Not one for the beach-side casual reader!

Nutshell by Ian McEwan

Relaxing in a nice shady spot under a tree or sitting at the beach taking in the summer sun - Nutshell by Ian McEwan might be the book for you. A beautiful story told from a most unlikely perspective - an unborn child. He's at once omniscient and completely naïve, relying on the mother that carries him yet torn by his feelings towards her behaviour. The prose is beautiful too, McEwan is a truly wonderful writer.

Cricket with Kane Williamson by Kane Williamson

A brilliant guide to cricket basics from one of New Zealand’s premier players. Pitched for the general reader, this book offers so many insights into the game and how to understand it and hone your skills. There’s a lot of very interesting content from Kane and more psychological aspects of the game like leadership and mental toughness as well. What better advantage is there for the upcoming backyard cricket season?