Local legend Hatu Patu and the bird woman is the theme of a float one group of Rotorua kids, their parents and kindy teachers are creating for this weekend's Rotorua Christmas Parade.
The parade is tomorrow, starting at midday in Rangiuru St with around 42 decorated floats weaving their way through the city to the Village Green.
Elstree Kindergarten teacher Barbara Stone says the children have been really keen on the story of Hatu Patu so they decided their float will reflect their interpretation of the legend.
Parents have been helping the children make costumes and the paper mache rock, Barbara says.
"They are really excited. There has been a lot of interest in Hatu Patu and the bird woman. They've been helping
with the paper mache and they have been making capes and wings to wear. It's been tonnes of fun. Everybody has
had something to do,'' she says.
"Parents have been coming down and getting involved.''
It is good for the children to take an active part in developing the float and then being on it on the day.
"They have all had a part to play. There has been lots going on behind the scenes and it's been very inclusive ...
They are getting really excited about Christmas and the anticipation that comes and the singing and dancing around town. It helps them make a connection ...
"They are so excited about Christmas. They have a countdown chart on the wall and they are counting down the days until Santa comes.''
Their first chance to see the fat jolly man dressed in his red suit will be at the parade and on the Village Green where they will get the chance to give him their wish list.
Event organiser Aaron Gillions says there are 42 floats registered for Saturday's Christmas Parade which promises to be a glamorous event this year.
"Everyone is keeping things close to their chest as they plan their floats but there are going to be some fantastic
designs. I'm sure there will be some really surprised people,'' he says.
The parade starts in Rangiuru St and will weave along Tutanekai St up Haupapa St and along to Eruera St before heading along Fenton St to the Village Green.
Motorists can expect delays or should find an alternative route through the city between midday and 1pm.
Hopefully, Santa's float will be at the rear, if he can get away from the North Pole, and should be last to arrive at the
Village Green at the Rotorua Lakefront between 1pm and 1.30pm, Aaron says.
People will be walking alongside the floats handing out lollies and balloons but no lollies will be thrown from floats for safety reasons.
"There will be a giant lollie scramble and heaps of rides and activities for the entire family to enjoy on the Village Green. There is going to be a bouncy castle, jeep for the little ones to ride in, a sausage sizzle and candy floss and much more. The place will come alive,'' he says.
If it is raining it will still go ahead unless it is unsafe.
"Rain or shine it will go ahead,'' he says.