Thousands get into the Christmas spirit in Tauranga on Saturday

Santa Claus showed off his brand new float in the Trustpower Christmas Parade on Saturday. Photo/ Andrew Warner

Santa Claus made an appearance in Tauranga on Saturday, showing off his brand new ride.

The big man in red sat on his "new-look" float as he waved to thousands in the Trustpower Christmas Parade.

Giant colourful presents, oversized teddy bears and two reindeer featured on the new float, much to the delight of onlookers.

The first signs of summer were all around as families slapped on sunhats and the smell of sunscreen lingered.

The crowds were treated to a wide range of floats, which included 67 vehicles and 20 walking, marching or dancing groups.

Sue Waite and her 1-year-old grandson Brock Hodge were enjoying their first Christmas parade in Tauranga.

"We've come down to see all of the wonderful floats and enjoy the razzle and dazzle of the excitement," Waite said.

Emily Blackmore was excited to be a part of the Christmas parade as she stood on the Susanne Hanger Dance float.

The glittery reindeer had the important task of pulling the Ice Queen, with the help of other dancers.

She said she had been up since 7am on Saturday helping to put the finishing touches on the extravagant float.

"I love it, it's so pretty," Blackmore said.

Trustpower Christmas Parade organiser Fiona Corkery said she was "chuffed" with the attendance at the event.

"Last year we estimated about 20,000 people turned up, this year I think we were closer to 25,000."

She said many families stuck around after the parade finished and The Strand was packed with people getting a closer look at Santa and his float.

"We loved seeing the interaction on the waterfront, it's an opportunity to take some photos with Santa and have a chat to him," Corkery said.

Mr Claus said he loved coming to Tauranga and his elves were working very hard back at the North Pole trying to get all the presents sorted.

"Have a happy Christmas with your family and be good," he said.