Big jolly man delights Auckland for the 82nd time

It was a very Kiwi Christmas at today’s (Nov. 29) annual Farmers Santa Parade with Santa’s new Aotearoa-themed sleigh stealing the show.
 
Thousands of people lined the streets of Auckland CBD in the sunshine to celebrate the start of the festive season with a spectacular line-up of entertainment and talent.
 
In its 82nd incarnation, the Auckland Farmers Santa Parade again brings joy to the children and families of the city, says Farmers CEO Rod McDermott.
 
“The parade has a heritage of not only signalling the start of the holiday season but also reminding us that it is a special time for our children as well as the celebrations of the meaning of Christmas.
 
“Together with the involvement of volunteers, supporters and sponsors such as NZME and local groups and businesses, Farmers has provided the impetus for the Christmas parade.
 
“Today’s event represented outstanding family entertainment and our thanks go to all who took part and we hope all who made the journey to town really enjoyed the parade,” Mr McDermott says. “We are humbled that Aucklanders always come out in their thousands to support the parade and it is our pleasure to bring it to the streets of Auckland each and every year.”
 
In the parade you couldn’t miss Santa’s new-look float featuring dancing Kiwis, dolphins and Pohutukawa trees. Similarly the ‘Children of the World’ float which celebrates the rich cultural diversity of today’s Auckland was a further highpoint.
 
Other highlights included Sesame Street helium inflatables, energetic dance troops, and lively marching bands.
 
Chairman of the Auckland Children’s Christmas Parade Trust Michael Barnett says the parade was a feast for the eyes.
 
“Each year the Farmers Santa Parade proves itself to be New Zealand’s leading Christmas event. The calibre of the floats, performers and costumers is of an international standard and we’re extremely proud of how it turned out this year.”
 
Mr Barnett says more than 4,000 volunteers give up their time to ensure the event runs smoothly.
 
“A lot of time and energy goes in to this very special day and we are incredibly thankful for all the support of our sponsors and volunteer team. Without them, the event simply wouldn’t be possible.”
 
Families made their way to Santa’s Party following the parade to enjoy stage show entertainment as well as rides, celebrity appearances, face painting, and MC’ing from The Hits’ radio host Flynny.