Business in the Christmas spirit
A number of Matamata businesses have taken on the challenge of getting into the Christmas spirit.
New World Matamata has embraced the festive season and is this year home to a giant, ruralthemed Santa sleigh.
New World owner Matthew Hart said the store gets into the Christmas spirit each year.
‘‘It’s part of the New World brand to have a bit of fun with themes throughout the year and Christmas is as big as it gets for a theme.’’
A couple of years ago Sheree Hart got some outside help and the couple bought bits and pieces which they’ve used in the last few years.
‘‘Each year we get a whole raft of new stuff that comes out from Foodstuffs that we’re able to use. We put it all together and make it as cheerful as we can.’’
This year the business has purchased a rather large Christmas decoration which is located over the dairy department.
It is a little bit special, as it’s a Matamata-themed, horse and cow pulling Santa sleigh.
Matthew said this was made to reflect the connection the business has with the local community.
He encourages mata businesses other Matato decorate their store this festive season.
‘‘It’s up to the individual, but why wouldn’t you? Why not have a bit of fun and put a theme around it for a few weeks of the year. It’s the busiest time of year, the most crazy and hectic time of the year so why not have a bit of fun with it?
He said they don’t get too many comments, but there are a lot of kids stopping to have a play and a look around.
‘‘I’m sure people notice it and in their own way it puts a smile on their face.’’
The Christmas-themed store fits in with the supermarket’s Christmas Club Day tomorrow, December 3. ‘‘There will be lots of giveaways and Christmas Club members can potentially get extra prizes but any person can come in and potentially win a prize.’’ The store will also be giving away cash prizes.
New World is also part of the $10,000 shopping spree up for grabs by shopping with Matamata Business Association members.