The Community Driving Local Santa Parades
Words Olivia Freestone
Each Santa Parade brings a unique local touch to Christmas traditions, creating a celebration that has warmed the hearts of Kiwis for generations. Soon, the streets will be alive with the sparkle of festive floats, the jingle of bells, and, of course, a visit from Santa himself.
Wellsford kicked off the holiday season in style, marking the beginning of Santa parades across the region on the last Saturday of November. Rachel, from the organising committee, describes the Wellsford Christmas parade as capturing a true Kiwi vibe, with surprises at every turn - tractors, trailers, and kids walking the parade.
Meanwhile, in Mangawhai, preparations are underway for the sixth annual Mangawhai Santa Parade, a cherished community event led by the Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ). Starting from the estuary at Alamar Crescent, the parade winds through town, passing local shops and climbing the hill near the golf course before ending at MAZ. There, Santa will greet fans, hand out gifts, and kick off a Christmas concert featuring local performers. A highlight of this parade is Santa’s sleigh, a true community masterpiece. Built by the Mangawhai Shed team and painted by local artist Nicola Everett, the sleigh was introduced last year and has quickly become a beloved symbol of Mangawhai’s creativity.
In Warkworth, last year’s Santa parade had the biggest turnout yet. “Anyone can join,” says Murray Chapman, event organiser from One Mahurangi. “You can dress up a car or have the kids walk in the parade,” as long as they’re registered. Chapman and his team are committed to keeping the day affordable. “We just wanted to do something that wasn’t gonna cost the families anything,” he explains, noting the financial pressures of the season. Families can enjoy the festivities without cost, aside from optional treats from Mr. Whippy, food trucks, and face painting. For Chapman, who has organised the parade for eight years, the joy is in the children’s reactions “The look on their faces - it’s magic.”
Waipu then comes alive on Christmas Eve for the Waipu Christmas Parade, a cherished event dating all the way back to 1956. Peter Gibb, chairman of Promote Waipu, says, “It’s a tradition that’s deeply rooted in the community’s identity - there’s a real heart to it.” Gibb, involved in organising the parade for several years, shared the challenges, from traffic management to float preparation. “We tried to consider moving the date for easier traffic control,” he explained, “but the community was adamant - Christmas Eve is non-negotiable.” Despite the months of planning and countless volunteers, the Waipu parade remains a beloved Christmas Eve tradition.