At least one central Dunedin retailer has started decking its halls with Christmas displays while others are gearing up for the arrival of their busiest retail time of the year.
At Farmers in George St, which began displaying Christmas items last week, Santas on Harley Davidsons sit alongside angels, Christmas trains, lights, tinsel and a range of imitation pine trees.
Retail manager Michaela Marson said shoppers were surprised to see the decorations up so early.
"We've had a few gasps from people saying, 'Is it Christmas time already?'," she said.
Despite the initial shock over how early the display had been set up, shoppers had responded well to it.
"We've had a good reaction so far. People seem to be excited when they see it."
Santa Claus' grotto will be set up in the Meridian in early December, Meridian general manager, Michael Porter, said.
"Our focus is on Santa, because that's what Christmas is about to a lot of people."
- Tim Glasgow
