Santa's on way to CHB to give his all

The St Joseph's School float won first place in the school's section at 2015's CHB Community Christmas Parade in Waipukurau.

The festive season in Central Hawke's Bay starts tomorrowwith a series of organised events and celebrations.

One of the highlights, the annual CHB Community Christmas Parade, takes place this Saturday, December 2.

Starting at 3pm, the parade would run down Ruataniwha St in Waipukurau before finishing at Russell Park, said Carol-Ann Stubbs from Gameplan Events, who is organising the parade on behalf of CHB Promotions.

"With over 26 entries, including the ever-popular foam cannon, it's once again set to be one of Hawke's Bay's bigger Christmas parades," she said.

The parade will finish up at Russell Park about 4pm with carols, a visit from Santa and fun for the family.

"People are encouraged to bring along a picnic, blanket, seating and set up for a festive afternoon and early evening at the park," said Carol-Ann.

At Russell Park there will also be collection points for non-perishable food and toiletry items for the CHB Food Bank, as well as new unwrapped Christmas gifts to be distributed by Central Connect to families in need.

The CHB Community Christmas Tree will go up at the Green Patch in Waipukurau this Friday and will feature decorations made by children at the recent CHB A&P Show.

Centralines will be installing Christmas lights and decorations on the street lights in Waipawa and Waipukurau, while CHB Municipal Theatre in Waipawa will again host Santa's Cave from Monday, December 18, through to December 21, between 3pm and 6pm daily.

In addition to the festive events, for the first time Oruawharo Homestead will be hosting Christmas Under The Stars on Saturday, December 16.

The family-friendly event will begin at 5pm and the evening will include a buffet dinner at 6pm, followed entertainment from Dannevirke vocalist Elijah, David Selfe, The Norsewood Choir and Opera guests, Christmas carols and readings.

Tickets for this event are available by phoning Oruawharo Homestead directly on 06 855 8274.