Santa parades -

First established in the early 1900s to announce the arrival of department store Santas, Christmas parades were used to build excitement and encourage foot traffic into stores in the lead up to Christmas.

Now generally community-led or run by charitable trusts, these cheerful parades are a staple of the festive season across the motu. Among the creative floats sponsored by local businesses, you’ll often find representation of clubs and associations at Christmas parades, and of course, at least one man with a red suit, a long white beard and a twinkle in his eye.

Browse our kete | set of images from Christmas parades shared on Kōtuia.