Hundreds gathered to share Christmas dinner at community celebrations in Masterton and Carterton yesterday.
At Masterton Town Hall, about 160 enjoyed a traditional Christmas meal with all the trimmings, organised by Masterton Community Church.
On the menu was ham, roast pork, roast beef and vegetables, followed by pavlova, Christmas pudding,custard, cream and icecream, said organiser Michael Jackson. "It's been very good, fantastic. We've got a few regulars and a few new ones as well."
He said the event couldn't go ahead without the help of about 30 volunteers, and the generous support of sponsors. "We really couldn't do it without the helpers."
Volunteer Liz Williams, who came dressed in festive costume, said the day wasn't lacking in Christmas cheer. "Everyone seems happy and there's plenty of food to go around. Santa's going to turn up at some point for the kids."
At the Carterton Events Centre, about 50 people enjoyed a menu including chicken, ham, roast pork, lamb, vegetables, and dessert, said organiser Brian Hanson. "Most of it's all been donated, which is fantastic. You couldn't do this without donations from the town."
The large committee of organisers and volunteers helping yesterday included Carterton mayor Ron Mark, who was serving vegetables.
