Team NZ join man in red for parade

Peter Taylor with a new float to mark this year's 80th Santa Parade. Photo / Richard Robinson

Emirates Team New Zealand will join Santa when he takes a break from his busy Christmas preparations to spread festive joy in central Auckland tomorrow.

It will be the 80th time Father Christmas has waved to tens of thousands of children from his sleigh as part of the annual Farmers Santa Parade.

This year, Team New Zealand, minus Grant Dalton who is overseas, will join the man in red to greet crowds along the parade's 2.2km route.

Both shore and sailing crews will be accompanied by their partners and children.

Parade-goers are advised to get into the city before noon to avoid frustration with traffic and parking - and so they can take part in the pre-parade entertainment from 1pm.

Collectors from the Child Cancer Foundation will also be at the parade raising funds and helpers will be clearly visible in bright blue uniforms.

Parade stalwarts the City of Auckland Pipe Band will again feature. The band, formed in 1942 at the height of World War II, has performed almost every year since 1945.

A post-parade Santa's Party in Aotea Square will also bring more entertainment from 3.15pm, including rides, stalls, celebrities, giveaways and another appearance from the man in red.

Farmers Santa Parade

The parade: The parade starts at 2pm with entertainment from 1pm Sunday.

Parking and transport: Free parking available at Downtown and Victoria St carparks if you are parked by 12pm. Phone 09 366 6400 or visit maxx.co.nz for bus, train and ferry information.

Parade route: Starts on Mayoral Drive, turns left into Queen St, travels down Queen St before turning left again into Customs St West, up Albert St and ending at Albert St and Wellesley St.

Road closures: All inner-city roads are closed between 12pm and 5pm on Sunday.

Santa's Party: From 3.15pm in Aotea Square featuring music, dance and entertainment.

Charity: Look out for Child Cancer collectors in bright blue uniforms. Donate by texting BEAD to 206.

If it rains: Parade will be held on December 1. An announcement will be made on Newstalk ZB after 10am on Sunday.