Clear case of Santa inflation

Meela Cockburn (7) and Camrin Stephen (9) check Santa's letterbox. The letterbox is part of a Christmas display put together by Russell Cockburn in Union St, Milton.

Mr Cockburn said his blow-up Santa display was inspired by other Christmas-themed displays in the past in the Dunedin suburb of Waldronville.

He had bought his Santas online from Australia and New Zealand, and started displaying about 10 years ago.

''It just grew since then,'' he said. The lighting display had also grown.

''I just added, and added, and added.''

Mr Cockburn said passers-by enjoyed them each Christmas, as did his four grandchildren.

''It's just a hobby now.''