Ho, ho, hop to it: What you need to know to catch the Santa Parade
The Christmas season is upon us and even though Santa is flat-out making lists and checking them twice, his head elf has found a gap to ensure Father Christmas can make the kids smile at Auckland’s Santa Parade.
The annual event has become a cherished holiday tradition for many.
And this year, with a performance from children’s entertainer — and former Wiggle — Emma Memma, and Warriors star Shaun Johnson running the show, it’s going to be a truly magical affair — especially if the weather holds up.
So, if you’re putting on your festive red and white hat and heading along tomorrow, here’s what you need to know:
When does it start?
The official parade doesn’t begin until 1pm, but there is a pre-party little ones will love to be a part of.
Festivities kick off at 12pm for preparade activity, then at 1pm on the dot, Santa will start to make his way through the streets of Auckland, along with 4000 participants, performers and volunteers, on floats and on foot.
The parade is scheduled to conclude at 2.30pm, but Santa’s Party runs until 5pm and will include an appearance from Emma Memma as well as performances from numerous incredible dancers.
Parking and transport
Like all big events in Auckland, it’s recommended
you bus, train, cycle or ferry into the city centre to avoid congestion. However, if that isn’t possible, Auckland Transport is offering free parking at the Downtown and Victoria Street carparks.
To access the free parking, vehicles must be parked before 11am and exit between 2pm and 6pm.
If you are travelling by bus, train or bike, Auckland Transport recommends travelling into the city before 11am and checking your journey on AT Journey Planner as there will be multiple road closures.
Stars of the show
We all know Santa, his reindeer and elves are the real stars of this parade, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t organised some friends to join him.
Leading the march down Auckland’s Queen St as Grand Marshal, is the one and only Shaun Johnson, who will be joined by The Hits hosts Ben Boyce and Megan Papas, as well as Coast star Toni Street.
For floats, parade alums will see all their favourites, such as Disney’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse inflatables, the Unicorn Princess Float and the GMA Fire Truck, as well as festive floats Elf on the Shelf, the Christmas Train, North Pole Express and Santa’s Workshop.
Emma Memma will be making a very special appearance at Santa’s Party about 3.05pm before Catboy, Owlette and Gekko from PJ Masks take the stage at 3.15pm. Parade-goers will also have the chance to see Kiwi dance performers from Neverland Studios, on stage at 3.45pm.
What to bring
With the weather anticipated to reach a summery 20C, with little chance of rain, there are three essentials for the daypack: sunblock, a sunhat and water.
While there will be food and drink available to purchase at the pre-show and Santa’s Party, huge crowds mean they won’t be quick — or necessarily easy — to get to, so it’s best to come prepared.
Other items to bring include snacks, sunglasses and anything else you and your children may require.
Postponement date
In the unlikely event the parade is postponed because of bad weather, an announcement will be made on the parade website and Facebook page at 8am tomorrow.