Santa to make early visit

Although there are only 21 sleeps to go before the famous big man in the fabulous red suit officially descends on our land, it seems Santa Claus cannot resist the swings, slides and other fun apparatus at Mangawhai’s favourite playground, and has decided to make an early visit.

Santa will be dropping in at Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) on December 17, a week before the big day, arriving in the uncharacteristic late morning hour of 11am and hanging out till 2pm.

Unfortunately Rudolph, Prancer, Blitzen and the rest of the hooved gang will not be accompanying their leader on this visit, as Santa’s sleigh is being serviced that day, MAZ spokesperson and personal friend of Santa Claus, Ken Rayward says.

“But one of his elves has organised him to borrow some special transport from local business Mangawhai Hire instead to get him around,” he says. “Santa has invited everyone to share in the joy of Christmas at MAZ, with treats, treasures and photo opportunities, so bring a picnic and enjoy a great time.”

- REPORTING/Julia Wade