From high on the Community Trust South Santa float, surrounded by a merry crew of elves, fairies, and angels, the world looks magical.
The streets are alive with excitement. Children’s faces light up as they catch sight of Santa, their eyes wide with wonder, waving and sharing with their families a moment of pure delight that feels like the very essence of Christmas.
For many, the Southland Santa Parade marks the beginning of the festive season. As a free, inclusive, family-friendly celebration, it offers an incredible opportunity for communities to come together, to celebrate, reflect, and welcome the start of what we hope will be summer.
More than floats and costumes, the parade is a showcase of Southland’s diversity and a reminder that shared experiences strengthen community connections. From local schools and cultural groups to clubs and businesses, this beloved event invites everyone to add their own creativity and spirit.
Behind the scenes, this magic doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of months of planning and countless hours of dedication from the parade coordinators and volunteers. Their commitment ensures every detail, from safety to sparkle, comes together seamlessly, creating an event that truly belongs to the community.
The magic extends far beyond those on the floats. Around 15,000 to 20,000 people fill the city centre, all vying for a glimpse of the big man in red and cheering enthusiastically for those sharing their culture, passion, and waving from a float. Events like this unite generations and cultures, sparking joy across our rohe/region.
From Santa’s sleigh, the view is clear: this is what community looks like; smiles, laughter, and the magic of coming together.
One of Santa's elves summed it up best:
"From up here, I can see the true spirit of our communities, families laughing, children waving, and everyone sharing in the joy of the season. This parade isn’t just about Christmas; it’s about community, and that’s the greatest gift of all."
Thanks to the support of Community Trust South, this event continues to activate spaces and places that bring joy and foster connection.
It reflects the Trust’s commitment to creating opportunities where people can come together, celebrate diversity, and build pride in our region, because strong communities start with shared experiences, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic only makes it brighter.
