With just over a month to go, Wairoa shoppers are set to get in early to make sure they have everything wrapped and ready to go under the tree for Christmas Day.
Christmas decorations are soon to be up in the northern Hawke's Bay town, with the retail sector usually gearing up for the Christmas period around early December, Wairoa District Council economic development and engagement manager Kitea Tipuna said.
"Our people are smart, and they like to get their shopping out of the way early."
As well as catering to locals searching for Christmas presents, the town's smaller retailers were also prepared for an "influx" of tourists, and independent travellers who usually passed through Wairoa.
"Often it's the case that those venturing through our beautiful district are looking for experiences and hospitality rather than particular products, and this is where Wairoa really shines.