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It’s time to untangle the tinsel, dust off the decorations and freshen up festive costumes for Warkworth’s annual Santa Parade, which takes place on Saturday, December 13.
Organiser One Mahurangi is calling on local businesses, bands, schools, clubs and community groups to join in the fun and enter the parade, whether on a float, on foot, truck, ute or trailer, to make this year’s event the best yet.
Manager Murray Chapman says as well as a festive spectacle for locals and visitors, the Santa Parade is also an opportunity for groups and organisations to connect with the community and their supporters.
“We’re expecting over 3500 people to attend this increasingly popular event,” he says.
“It’s always a fun-filled morning as the town comes alive with festive spirit, colourful floats, music and smiles all around.
“And the more floats and entertainment we have, the more friends, families and visitors there will be lining the streets of Warkworth.”
Chapman says groups and individuals from the Wellsford area will be particularly welcome this year, following the unexpected cancellation of their parade due to new national traffic management guidelines (MM, Nov 10).
As in previous years, there will be prizes for the best float in four categories – best business, best educational institution, best community group and a people’s choice award.
There is also a prize draw for a brand new cubby house from Keith Hay Homes Warkworth – to enter, people need to get an entry form from parade volunteers (who will be dressed in high vis) then drop the completed form off at the prizegiving in Baxter Street straight after the parade.
Chapman says the winner will be announced at the end of prizegiving and they need to be present to claim the cubby house prize.
He says big thanks are due to Santa Parade main sponsors Warkworth Toyota, Barfoot & Thompson and Rodney Local Board.
One Mahurangi is still keen to hear from people or businesses who could sponsor the event or help on the day, as well as main street retailers willing to offer the use of footpath space outside their shops for use by fundraising stalls.
Info, updates, registration forms and route maps: https://onemahurangi.co.nz/wwsantaparade2025 or visit Warkworth Information Centre
Where to see Santa
11am – Santa and the parade start from Baxter Street, then go along Queen Street, loop around the Bayleys Building, come back onto Queen Street, turn left down Kapanui Street, go right up Wharf Street and around the roundabout for a second loop, before finishing in Baxter Street.
11.45am-12 noon – Parade ends, followed by prizegiving in Baxter Street, photos with Santa, spot prizes and lolly scramble.
