Media Release                                                                                             

23 November 2007

The festive season starts here

An expected 250,000 people will turn out to this Sunday’s Auckland Farmers Santa Parade to welcome Santa to the City of Sails.

The parade kicks off at 2pm on Sunday 25 November and the public are encouraged to get there early to get a good spot.

“This year’s Farmers Santa Parade will be a fun filled afternoon for all,” says parade organiser Pam Glaser.

“Santa will be accompanied by some fantastic new floats including a new Carnival float, a Magic Genie float and a Butterfly Ball float. Also making an appearance will be Alvin and The Chipmunks grooving to music on their float.”

“Keeping the crowd entertained will be Pickachu, Ben 10, Bart and Homer Simpson, Bananas in Pyjamas and many more colourful characters.”

The floats travel from Cook Street down Mayoral Drive and into Queen Street, turn left into Custom Street West, then left again into Albert Street, ending at the corner of Albert and Wellesley Streets.

There are a number of ways to get to the parade and free parking is available at the Auckland City Park Right Carparks at Downtown, Victoria Street, K’Rd and Fanshawe Street Auckland if you are parked by 12 noon. Otherwise take a bus, train or ferry and avoid the hassle.

To ensure the safety of all who attend the parade, parents, children and caregivers should keep ensure they keep behind the Heart of the City Blue Honour Line painted on the road.

At the beginning of the parade collectors will be out seeking donations from the crowd to support Koru Care, a charity that brings happiness to the lives of some of our nation’s most unfortunate children.

And while it’s a great occasion, the fun doesn’t end after the Parade stops - there is a rocking after party in Aotea Square where two hours of exciting stage entertainment, fun rides and giveaways have been organised for the kids, teens and adults who come along. Everyone is welcome to join the post parade fun.

“The Farmers Santa Parade receives so much good will from the community and we are thankful for all the support we get from our many volunteers,” says Ms Glaser.

“We have 4,000 people who give up their time to make the parade a success. Nominations are still open to find the outstanding volunteer of the year who will be awarded the Auckland City Cup.”

To nominate someone for the Auckland City Cup, the public can visit the Auckland City Council website and search for “santa parade” for more information. The presentation of the award will take place at the after party.

“The Farmers Santa Parade traditionally signals the start of the festive season. So get out your Santa hat and reindeer antlers and head down to the parade for an afternoon of fun-filled celebrations,” says Mrs Glaser.

For more information on the Farmers Santa Parade check out www.santaparade.co.nz

Farmers Santa Parade is proudly sponsored by: Farmers and Auckland City

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