Massive turnout for Rotorua KidsCan Santa Run (+video)

Not a cloud was in sight as countless santas, elves and reindeer ran riot around Rotorua's Village Green.

The Rotorua Great KidsCan Santa Run was held for a third year in Rotorua yesterday, and saw several people don santa suits to race around the track.

Rotorua Association of Triathletes and Multisports has run the event since it was introduced to the city. Chairwoman Nina Dobson said they were thrilled with the turnout.

Rotorua locals got into the spirit at the annual Great KidsCan Santa Run at the Village Green. Buy this print on NewsPixNZ RDP-1000524

"We have had a massive amount of on-the-day registrations this year which we've put down to the good weather.

"In previous years it rained and the santa suits don't fare very well when they get wet."

Ms Dobson said the race was designed so anybody could get involved.

"Whether a participant has a dog, buggy, kids, wants to run or walk, this event caters to everyone's needs. It's all about having fun in the name of charity and we have never had this many kids involved so we are really happy."

The course was a 1km loop around the Village Green which participants did twice.

There were prizes for best dressed and fastest man, woman, boy and girl.

Rotorua locals got into the spirit at the annual Great KidsCan Santa Run at the Village Green. Buy this print on NewsPixNZ RDP-1000524

First across the line was Steven Gray, followed by fastest girl Mapuna Rio, 11, fastest boy Te Ahu Ruha, 11, and fastest woman Kaye King.

Mr Gray said it was his second time taking part in the run. "It's a great chance to get the family out and go for a run. It's a good, fun event which I'd like to keep doing."