The free event will include obstacle courses for different ages, bouncy castles, face painting, a merry-go-round, and an interactive art zone.
Gray said stage entertainment would include the Modern Maori Quartet, which is headlining the event, RemininseSoul, a duo out of the band AO8 from Kamo High School, Blackout Cheerleading, Empire Dance Studio, and the Salvation Army Band and more.
Santa Claus will again make a special appearance, and will arrive in style, Gray said.
A variety of food will be available for sale. Picnics are allowed but people must observe a ban on alcohol, glass bottles, cans and takeaways.
The Salvation Army Whangārei gives out about 250 Christmas hampers to families who are struggling each year.
The hamper contains a chicken and veges for Christmas dinner, chips and dips, dessert, non-alcoholic drinks, and treats such as chocolate biscuits and nuts.
The army says their greatest needs are Christmas puddings, jellies, fancy biscuits, lollies or chocolates, potato chips, nuts, onion soup, reduced cream and tinned fruit.
Along with the hampers the Salvation Army also distributes Christmas presents to children of the families in need and has made a plea for more gifts for teens.
Presents from the public can be placed under the giant Christmas tree.
The event starts at the family friendly time of 5pm, with gates opening an hour earlier, and will end with a fireworks display.
