Birthright has stepped into the frame and displays will be judged by single-parent families rather than sponsors when the bus takes a tour of the entries before Christmas.
Sue and Steve Ellis say they are keen to see the Whanganui community, businesses and the wider district get behind the competition.
And they want lots of Victoria Ave businesses to enter the contest with the Mainstreet late night shopping evening, scheduled for December 15 an ideal opportunity for the public to experience the festive whilst catching up on their Christmas shopping.
Light Up Your Home is all about family and sharing the special feeling of the festive season.
The competition is open to all residents within the Wanganui Chronicle circulation area.
There are four categories, with Cleveland Funeral Home giving $500 for the best Christmas lights and second place winning a $300 Placemakers gift voucher. The winner in the business category gets a $500 advertising package from NZME with a $300 package for the runner-up.
The people's choice picks up a $200 Pak 'n' Save voucher, with a $100 voucher for the runner-up, and there is a $300 Firewatch home protection package basket for the best new entrant.
There is also a $200 Wanganui Garden Centre voucher for the best garden display.
Entry is free and entry forms must be delivered to the Chronicle or LJ Hooker office by December 10.
The Christmas lights map will be published in the Chronicle from December 13, with judging on December 15 and winners to be announced on January 16.
