Santa sets his sights on all walks of life this Christmas

“Merry Christmas to all” takes a literal meaning at Botany Town Centre this season, as Santa invites locals, of not only the two-legged, but the four-legged variety to share in the festive spirit as he settles in to the centre.

There are several dates to mark on the calendar in the lead up to Christmas for locals looking for ways to entertain the family. Signifying the start of the season, Santa will be welcomed to the centre in grand-style on Saturday 23 November with a parade. Starting at 11am in Town Square, elves, entertainers and local community groups will parade around the centre, followed by a performance by Mr and Mrs Claus and other seasonal characters. Then they will all lead Santa to his home for the season at his Icehouse Grotto in the Conservatory by Muffin Break, where regular photos with Santa will be available from 2pm.

Once Santa is settled in, the perennial favourite Carols at Botany will take place on Thursday 28 November in Town Square from 7pm, with carollers, choirs and plenty of fun for the family.

Catering to New Zealand’s love affair with pets (pets outnumber people in New Zealand with a total pet population of 5 million), Botany Town Centre is inviting animal lovers to bring their beloved pet to the centre for a special photo with Santa on Sunday 8 December. Santa will be available for pet photos between 10am – 12pm. Bookings can be made at the visitors centre.

Desiree Clark, senior marketing manager at Botany Town Centre says the community already seems to be feeling the buzz of Christmas. “The centre is already decorated and there is a distinct festive vibe. Christmas is always a special time at Botany Town Centre and as the evenings get warmer, more people start making the most of the great outdoor garden atmosphere, watching the twinkling icicle lights over a hot chocolate.

We are particularly excited to have partnered with Diabetes Youth Auckland this year to be able to support their cause through the many charitable initiatives undertaken at the centre over Christmas.”

Details:
Event: Santa’s arrival parade
Location: Parade starts from Town Square
Date: 23 November 2013
Time: 11am

Event: Carols at Botany
Location: Town Square
Date: Thursday 28 November 2013
Time: 7pm

Event: Pet photos with Santa
Location: Santa’s Grotto, in the conservatory by Muffin Break
Date: Sunday 8 December 2013
Time: 10am – 12pm