By ALISON BROWN in Rotorua
A giant Christmas present nearly stole the thunder from the big man himself in this year's Santa parade.
Owhata Primary School came up trumps on Saturday when its float, complete with gift boxes, batman and spiderman, was judged the best in the parade, which featuredeverything from pirates to elves.
The school's trailer carried the theme "All I Want for Christmas" and it was the third time in five years Owhata has won the overall prize.
Principal Bob Stiles said he was proud of his school's achievement.
"It just looked fantastic. Teachers, pupils and their parents spent about a week putting it together on a low budget."
Hundreds of children and their families lined the central city streets for the parade and to catch a rare glimpse of the man who symbolises the festive season.
They were not disappointed - the chubby old chap in his red suit rode high up on a sleigh with six reindeer at the end of a convoy of 44 weird and wonderful floats.
The hour-long parade was blessed with warm weather and surely tested Santa who is more used to the icy cold climate of his home at the North Pole.
Several Rotorua primary schools got behind the parade, along with not-for-profit groups, sports clubs and local businesses.
It was organised by Classic Hits 97FM and Kiwiani club members who worked as marshalls to keep the parade and spectators on track.
Event coordinator Nichola Maclean said judges believed the quality of entries was a "step up" from last year. "There was a lot more colour and music this year which made everything that extra bit festive."
