Countdown begins to December Christmas parade

JULIA WADE

Although the country is slowly creeping out of a wild wet winter, the countdown to the summer festive season is already on with only three months, three weeks and three days to go until Mangawhai’s annual fun-filled festive day hits town.

Organised by Mangawhai Activity Zone [MAZ], the area’s largest street carnival, the Santa Parade, is scheduled for December 11 with a later start time of 1pm followed by the Christmas Concert from 4pm to 6.30pm.

Coordinator John Phillis, head-elf and Santa’s right-hand man, says now is the time for people who would like to be involved to start thinking about creating their floats.

“Registrations are open now and we’re looking forward to people signing up, dusting off the tinsel and joining the fun,” he says. “Santa missed being in the parade last year and is looking forward to returning to Mangawhai and seeing everyone again.”

Unfortunately the 2021 event had to be scrapped due to Covid restrictions, although Santa did drop in for a day, travelling round the town and visiting various businesses and organisations to spread some festive cheer.

Past parades have been outstanding successes, attracting thousands of spectators with hundreds more from local businesses, schools, clubs and community services, dressing up and dancing, singing, sporting water guns and handing out sweets in a colourful entertaining convoy.

After winding through local streets and congregating at MAZ, children have a chance to meet and greet the famous man in the red suit as well as have a photo taken, followed by the Christmas Concert which features a number of local musical talent.

“If you’re interested in registering a float, big or small, please get in contact, would really like the community to once again get behind this amazing event.”

n Interested? Contact head elf aka John Phillis 021 339 329 or email johnphilliscelebrant@gmail.com

Santa always attracts a crowd as he travels around town. The jolly man is pictured with parade coordinator and head elf John Phillis. PHOTO/FILE