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The countdown has started for the annual Ōrewa New World Santa Parade, which will be held on Saturday November 23, starting at 4.30pm.
Organised by Destination Ōrewa Beach (DOB), office manager Gayle Hill says the parade is the largest one north of the harbour bridge and traditionally attracts around 40-plus floats.
“Participation last year was huge so we’ve well and truly bounced back after covid,” she says.
There is still time to enter a float. Although entry is free, organisers say that in the spirit of Christmas, all floats must be decorated.
Prizes will be awarded in five categories – best team float, best school/child focussed float, best commercial entry, best non-commercial entry and most creative float.
Hill says DOB has some surprises in store this year, including an exciting new marching band.
“We are still looking for children to participate,” she says. “We need six to 12 year olds to walk in the parade and four to six year olds to ride in the little steam train. All costumes will be supplied.
“The parade is a wonderful way to welcome in the festive season, particularly with the arrival of Santa Claus, who will be riding in a brand new sleigh this year.”
An Eats & Beats Cultural Festival will be held in Moana Reserve, in conjunction with the parade. It will run from 2pm to 6pm, and will celebrate African culture with food, craft and entertainment.
The parade starts in Florence Avenue and then makes its way along the beach front to the Ōrewa Surf Club.
The rain date, which hopefully wont be required, will be the following day, Sunday November 24.
To enter a float, find out more or register the involvement of a child, email admin@orewabeach.co.nz or visit https://orewabeach.co.nz/
