On Sunday, a Santa Claus donning a red korowai and holding a taiaha featured in the parade festivities sans trademark hat, beard and suit.
One spectator filmed the float gliding past in Trafalgar St but said she "never realised it was Santa''.
"I'm 75 years old today as well, lol. Tricked at my age. How's that?''
The Santa Parade Trust yesterday issued an apology to those upset by the event.
Event director Mark Soper said they were truly sorry that the parade did not live up to expectations, and were "saddened to hear so many people were disappointed''.
"We definitely have learnt a lot from this, and hope to build on the multicultural elements, with more cultural groups participating in the next parade.
"Regardless, next year will see a return of a traditional Santa Claus.''
In a statement, Nelson City Council (NCC) noted that, while it provided a funding grant to assist the Santa Parade Trust, NCC had no influence on the organisation of the event.
"While NCC appreciates what the Santa Parade organisers were trying to achieve, they have met with them to pass on the feedback received from the community.
"This feedback will be taken into account for future events.''
Since the parade, elected members and NCC staff had been the target of significant abuse, the statement said.
"This is not OK. Regardless of people's viewpoint, sending abusive messages and targeting people who had no input into decisions or organising the event is unacceptable, and not in the spirit of Christmas.''
