Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree.

Dunstan Hospital’s annual Christmas tree decorating competition this year is the biggest yet with a record number of entries - and visitors have just two days left to vote for their favourite.

Sixteen teams of hospital staff have decked the foyer in bright baubles and more, the display boosting the spirits of patients, staff and visitors since earlier this month.

Central Otago Health Services Ltd executive assistant Jo O’Brien said staff loved watching the joy spread across the faces of those who come in to see the trees.

“Staff, patients, and visitors to the hospital come in and wander around the atrium, surveying the trees, and when they have decided on their favourite, they cast their vote by placing a ticket in the box below their tree,” she said.

Voting closes at 5pm on Thursday this week and the winner will be announced on Friday December 20. 

“Popular themes this year have been animals; we have a snowman, a penguin, and a reindeer, as well as a few Santas, a tree-dress, inspired by Christmas at the races, and an amazing trash to treasure entry.”

The tree inspired by Christmas at the races. PHOTO: Supplied 

Jo said the first tree up was Nga manu o te Kirihimete (The birds of Christmas) tree created by the child development team. 

Materials have been donated, brought in from home or sourced creatively, in addition to the tinsel, ribbons, and baubles, recycled items, soft toys, and a walking frame are used. 

“The standard is very high this year and the display brings a big smile to patients and visitors to the hospital, with some patients walking a little further each day to have a look.” 

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