Christmas festivities in the Esplanade
It was full steam ahead at the Palmerston North Victoria Esplanade as Santa Claus and Mrs Claus greeted children taking a ride through the park.
About 800 passengers took a ride on the Esplanade Scenic Railway on Saturday for a day of Christmas fun. And many more were back on another hot, fine day on Sunday.
Railway vice president Arnold Brown said the train was packed all day on Saturday as children wanted to get a glimpse of Mr and Mars Claus, who were hiding in the Esplanade.
‘‘It’s been flat out. This is the sunshine industry. When the sun shines we see people.’’
Christmas songs from the Palmerston North City Brass Band could be heard throughout the Esplanade as they also joined the festivities.
The ensemble was raising money for its 150th jubilee, in 2018, Brown said.
‘‘They just added to the occasion.’’
Lollipops and toys were also given out to passengers, and Button Nose Face Painting was on site to decorate children’s faces.
Brown said money from the train rides would go towards renovating the station.
The fare is going up on January 1 for the first time in a decade.
Tickets will cost 50 cents more, meaning a one-way trip will cost $2 and a return fare will be $3.
Despite the price hike, feedback on the Palmerston North Esplanade Scenic Railway Facebook page was overwhelmingly positive.
‘‘Still a very cheap thing to do with the kids,’’ said one post.
Another commented it was the best entertainment in Palmerston North and true value for money.
The train is also dropping its eight-trip concession tickets, but will continue to redeem them, while under-2s will still ride for free.
The Christmas festivities at the Esplanade were on Saturday and Sunday from midday to 4pm.