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News release Auckland – 1
Friday 17, November

Santa Parade signals start of festive season

Christmas is for families and there’s no bigger festive season event for children and their families than the Farmers Santa Parade. It signals the start of yuletide festivities and in 2006 the parade returns on November 26 bigger and better than ever.

The parade begins at 2pm at the corner of Mayoral Drive and Cook Street and heads into Mayoral Drive, down Queen Street, left into Customs Street and then up Albert Street to the corner of Wellesley Street.

Make sure you get a great spot on the parade route to catch a good look at your favourite characters and some of the magnificent new floats in the 2006 parade.

Exciting new floats include Snakes and Ladders, Fantasy Garden, By the Seaside and the Enchanted River Boat, while new characters making their presence felt include Postman Pat and Strawberry Shortcake.

Leading these floats and characters are the Parade Grand Marshals, children’s TV presenters Matt, Dayna and Jordan from Studio 2.

Pam Glaser says with thousands of kids involved or looking on, safety is a big factor in planning the parade.

“It’s important for everyone’s enjoyment of this wonderful event that people stick to the rules. We ask that everyone stays behind the Heart of the City Blue Honour Line marking the limit people are allowed to encroach on to the road.

“Don’t worry, most places get a good view because the floats are quite high so they are very visible.”

Courtesy of Auckland City there is free parking at four central car park buildings – but you must be there before 12 noon to take advantage of the offer at the Downtown, Victoria Street, K’ Rd buildings and the car park at 72 - 100 Fanshawe St.

To find out about special bus and train family passes visit www.maxx.co.nz or call the Maxx contact centre on 366 6400.

While you’re there nice and early, the organisers of the Farmers Santa Parade ask you to give a little thought for the volunteers of the official parade charity. This year the beneficiaries are Koru Care and the Auckland Children’s Christmas Parade Trust. So please remember to bring along a gold coin or three to help these great causes.

And when you come for the parade, don’t forget to stay for the After Party. It is scheduled to kick off in Aotea Square at approximately 3pm and everyone’s invited.

Remember, if the weather conspires to cause problems, the parade organisers have a rain date on Sunday December 3. Listen to Newstalk ZB after 10am on November 26 for a postponement notice.

To find out more, visit www.santaparade.co.nz

ENDS

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