Editorial: Parade a great Kiwi custom

Santa Claus takes to the streets of Tauranga in his sleigh. Andrew Warner

Going to the Santa parade with my family when I was younger was always a highlight of the year.

It really felt like Christmas once we'd been to the Santa parade.

I remember sitting among the masses on Queen St, collecting as many lollies as we could and marvelling at the amazing floats and costumes.

One year, I even got to be in a Santa parade. I was so excited to dress up as Mary, mother of Jesus, and be part of the nativity scene.

Another year we happened to be in Murchison and headed out to check out the town's parade on Christmas Eve.

It wasn't what we expected. Local kids were having a laugh taking part in wheelbarrow races while the parents socialised at the pub.

The result was the same - families having fun and enjoying the company of others in the community.

On Saturday, hundreds of families turned out to see the Santa parades in Tauranga, Katikati and Te Puke.

The sun was shining and there were plenty of smiles to be seen.

Christmas parades are great community events for people of all ages to enjoy.

For those who head along to watch, it is a free activity for the whole family and is bound to create memories.

For those who take part, it's a chance to use your talents, give back to the community and help make the day memorable for everyone taking part or watching.

I'm glad Christmas parades are still held in most cities and towns throughout the country.

No matter how big or small they are, they bring people together to celebrate.

It really is a Kiwi Christmas tradition - one that I hope continues for years to come.