The holiday period is both an exciting and challenging time in hospitality. You’re juggling packed venues, managing rosters around public holidays, keeping your team motivated, and trying to stay on top of which staff member is entitled to what. That’s where the 2025 Hospo Holiday Survival Guide can help – your complete toolkit for navigating everything the festive season throws at you.
Get your copy of the 2025 Hospo Holiday Survival Guide at restaurantnz.co.nz/hospo-holiday-survival-guide.
Whether you’re staying open through Christmas and New Year or planning a well-earned closedown, we’ve got your back with practical answers to the questions that keep you up at night.
The guide is organised into six essential sections that address the challenges you face during the festive season.
Employment questions answered
Does Christmas Day count as an otherwise working day for your part-time staff? What do you do if someone resigns right before your busiest week? How should you pay staff working on Boxing Day? Find the answers – detailed FAQ’s and ready-to-use templates that take the stress out of holiday employment compliance.
Keep your operations running smoothly
The last thing you need is to be scrambling for information when something goes wrong. From unexpected equipment failures to managing gift voucher redemptions, we’ve covered the operational essentials you need. You’ll find guidance on everything from handling health and safety incidents to what to do if a Labour Inspector shows up during your holiday rush.
Handle customer situations with confidence
The holiday season brings out the best in most customers – but occasionally the worst in a few. Our guide gives you practical strategies for dealing with complaints, managing difficult situations, and ensuring everyone has a great experience. You’ll also find tips on building customer relationships that keep people coming back.
Stay on top of host responsibility
With Christmas parties in full swing and celebrations everywhere, host responsibility is key. We’ve included comprehensive host responsibility guidelines, intoxication prevention tools, and alcohol promotion guidance as refreshers to help your team serve responsibly while still creating that festive atmosphere your customers love.
Looking after yourself and your team
Hospitality is demanding at all times but the holiday season can sometimes push people to their limits. The Hospo Holiday Survival guide includes wellbeing resources for you and your staff. From mental health helplines to practical tips on managing stress, getting enough sleep, and staying healthy during the busiest weeks of the year.
This holiday season let us take care of giving you the information and confidence you need to handle whatever comes your way. Here’s to a successful, stress-free (as much as possible!) festive season.
Get your copy now at restaurantnz.co.nz/hospo-holiday-survival-guide.
Please note that the Association office will be closed from 19 December 2025, reopening 5 January 2026. While our Helpline won’t be operating during this wellness break, you’re not without support with everything you’ll need in the Hospo Holiday Guide.