Santa parade crowd estimated at 12,000
A CROWD that nearly matched Oamaru’s population filled Thames St on Saturday for a glimpse of Santa Claus.
Oamaru’s population is about 14,000 and Santa parade organiser Anton Roswell estimated 12,000 people filled the central business district under blue skies to take in the ‘‘bigger, better, faster, more exciting’’ start to the holiday season.
‘‘It’s a community parade; it’s a celebration of the entire Waitaki community,’’ he said.
About 11am, the Oamaru Coastal Defence Restoration Group started things with a bang from its 25pounder field gun/ howitzer and Central South Island Helicopters and the North Otago Aero Club flew over the Oamaru Heritage Area before more than 90 parade entries entertained the ‘‘absolutely huge’’ crowd for nearly an hour.
West African drumming mingled with music and good cheer before Santa pulled up the rear.
Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher, who took part in the parade, said he too was impressed by the size of the crowd.
‘‘I think it’s the biggest crowd we’ve had for quite a few years and we’ve had some big crowds along the way — but a really good turnout. Every one [Santa parade] seems to get busier and busier and busier every year.’’
And although he did not get any face time with Santa, he said his Christmas wish was for the entire community.
‘‘You just want people to be happy and, as much as possible, to be with family and friends over Christmas — that’s really what I wish for everyone.’’