Media release
November 25, 2012

Big jolly man brings joy to Auckland City

St Nick was the centre of attention in Auckland this afternoon as he welcomed in the festive season at the 79th annual Farmers Santa Parade.

Santa's float journeys down Queen Street at the 2012 Farmers Santa Parade. Copyright Topic Photography.

Led by a group of New Zealand Olympians and Paralympians, highlights of the parade included an impressive performance by the New Zealand Army Band as well the new Christmas Train and Willie Wonka floats. Inflatable character balloons, energetic dance troops and popular celebrities all made their way around the 2.2km parade route, to the delight of onlookers lining the streets of Auckland City.

Santa was the centre of attention at this year's Farmers Santa Parade. Copyright Topic Photography.

Chairman of the Auckland Children’s Christmas Parade Trust Michael Barnett says the standard of the parade was extraordinarily high.

“The Farmers Santa Parade is New Zealand’s leading Christmas event and the calibre of the floats, performers and costumers is on an international scale. We are thrilled to be able to share the joy of Christmas with Auckland families and thankful for the support of our sponsors - without them, the event simply wouldn’t be possible,” says Mr Barnett.

The Farmers London Town Float at the 2012 Farmers Santa Parade. Copyright Topic Photography.

Farmers Managing Director Rod McDermott says the company feels honoured to be bringing the event to Auckland again.

“Farmers is grateful to be able to share this annual Christmas event with Aucklanders for the 79th time and we hope all come back next year to share in our historical milestone. Thank you to the dedicated, hardworking volunteers behind the scenes - you all do an outstanding job. We wish every New Zealander a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,” says Mr McDermott.

Mickey Mouse & Donald Duck giant inflatables make their way around the parade route at the Farmers Santa Parade. Copyright Topic Photography.

Ends

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