Christmas Lights

Choose Christmas Lights by Type

The right lighting style will depend on where you want to use it and the effect you would like to create.

• LED string lights - Versatile lights for wrapping around Christmas trees, arranging along garlands or adding sparkle to suitable indoor and outdoor displays.
• Cluster lights - Closely spaced lights that create a fuller, more concentrated glow across trees and decorative features.
• Fairy lights - Delicate lights suited to shelves, tabletop displays, wreaths and smaller decorating projects.
• Decorative light sets - Feature lighting designed to create a particular shape, pattern or seasonal effect.

Lighting functions vary between products. Check the product description for features such as steady illumination, flashing effects, timers or selectable lighting modes.

Warm White, Cool White or Multicolour Lights?

• Warm white Christmas lights create a soft, inviting glow that works well with traditional decorations, greenery and metallic finishes.
• Cool white Christmas lights provide a crisp appearance that complements white, silver and contemporary decorating themes.
• Multicolour Christmas lights bring a bright, playful feel to trees, family spaces and colourful displays.

For a coordinated look, repeat the same light colour throughout the room. Alternatively, use different colours to distinguish your tree from other festive displays.

How to Choose the Right Length

Measure the area you want to decorate before selecting your lights. For a Christmas tree, consider its height, width and how densely you want the lights arranged. For shelves, garlands or outdoor features, measure the full route the lights will follow rather than only the straight-line distance.

Check the total illuminated length as well as the lead-cable length, particularly when the nearest suitable power point is some distance from the display. If you plan to connect multiple sets, only do so when the product instructions specifically allow it.

Indoor and Outdoor Christmas Lights

Not every Christmas light set is suitable for outdoor use. Always check the product label and instructions before installing lights outside. Outdoor-rated lights should be securely attached using suitable insulated clips or supports and positioned where they are protected from avoidable damage.

Indoor-only lights should remain inside and be kept away from moisture. Follow the supplied instructions for plugs, transformers, controllers and electrical connections.

Christmas Light Safety Tips

• Read and follow the installation and safety instructions supplied with the lights.
• Use lights with a New Zealand plug rather than a travel adaptor.
• Check cords, plugs, sockets and bulbs for visible damage before each use.
• Do not use lights with frayed wires, cracked sockets, loose connections or other damage.
• Switch off and unplug the lights before adjusting them or replacing compatible bulbs.
• Keep electrical connections away from moisture unless the product instructions confirm they are suitable for that environment.
• Turn Christmas lights off before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Keep lights and cords securely positioned away from walkways and areas where they may be pulled or damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Lights

What is the difference between string lights and cluster lights?
String lights usually have bulbs spaced along a cable for an even lighting effect. Cluster lights position bulbs more closely together to create a denser glow.

Can Christmas lights be used outdoors?
Only use a light set outdoors when its label and instructions confirm that it is suitable for outdoor use. Indoor-only lights should not be exposed to moisture or outdoor conditions.

How many Christmas lights do I need for my tree?
This depends on the tree’s height and width and whether you prefer a subtle or brightly illuminated look. Check the light set’s illuminated length and measure your tree before choosing.

Can different Christmas light sets be connected?
Only connect light sets when the manufacturer’s instructions specifically state that they are connectable. Follow the stated limits and do not mix incompatible products.

Can Christmas lights be left on overnight?
Christmas lights should be switched off before you go to bed or leave the house.

How should Christmas lights be stored?
Unplug the lights, inspect them for damage and loosely wind them around a suitable reel or piece of card to reduce tangling. Store them in a clean, dry container without tightly bending or crushing the wires.

Complete Your Christmas Display

Pair your lights with an artificial Christmas tree, add colour and character with Christmas tree decorations, or carry the glow throughout your home with Christmas room decorations.

Shop Christmas Lights Online or In Store

Browse Christmas lights online and check individual product pages for illuminated length, colour, lighting functions, power requirements, placement guidance, delivery options and availability. You can also find your nearest Farmers store and explore the seasonal range in person.

Discover more ways to decorate with Christmas home decorations from Farmers.