• Hot cross buns are traditionally made at Easter when Christians mark the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• The fruity and spicy buns are on sale at Woolworths’ supermarkets around the country, 108 days out from Good Friday.
• Sales of the buns will aid children in need, with 5c per packet sold going to the KidsCan charity, Woolworths’ bakery merchandise manager Michael Whorskey said.

The flour cross piped over its fruity and spicy bun represents the crucifixion of the central figure in the Christian faith.

But less than a week after Christians marked the birth of Jesus Christ, and 108 days out from Good Friday – the Christian holy day observing his crucifixion and death – hot cross buns are on sale in a leading supermarket.

The Herald was sent a photo of Woolworths-brand hot cross buns for sale today in the supermarket giant’s Te Atatū store in West Auckland.

“Hot Cross Buns out in DECEMBER”, the sharp-eyed reader wrote, adding a peeping eye emoji.

Hot cross buns on sale at a Woolworths supermarket in Auckland today –108 days before Good Friday.

Versions of the popular seasonal treat spotted by the shopper included traditional and brioche-style chocolate.

The supermarket chain this afternoon confirmed hot cross buns were already on sale at Woolworths’ stores nationwide.

“The early start to hot cross bun season might be controversial to some”, Woolworths’ hot cross bun expert Michael Whorskey said.

“But, time and time again, New Zealanders have shown that they simply love the tasty treat – no matter the time of year.”

Sales were in aid of a good cause, the bakery merchandise manager said.

“The best part is that when shoppers buy a pack of in-store baked buns, they’re not just getting a sweet treat, they’re also helping Kiwi kids”, Whorskey said.

“For every pack we sell, we’re donating 5c to support the fantastic work of KidsCan.”

KidsCan, founded by Dame Julie Chapman in 2005, provides food, clothing and health support to more than 60,000 New Zealand children in need.

Hot cross buns have also made an early appearance across the Tasman, with different versions of the sticky favourite spotted at Woolworths, Coles and Aldi supermarkets this week.

Cherie Howie is an Auckland-based reporter who joined the Herald in 2011. She has been a journalist for more than 20 years and specialises in general news and features.