The Gore Santa parade is off the Christmas list.
The continued uncertainty surrounding Covid-19 and events has forced the Gore District Council to make the difficult decision not to hold this year’s Christmas Carnival and Santa Parade, scheduled for December 12. The Te Anau parade was also called off yesterday.
It follows the decision earlier this week to cancel the Dunedin parade while other parades around the region were still in a waiting position. The council in Gore created an alternative celebration before Christmas.
December will have the first Gore District Advent Calendar event, with daily activities and prizes, plus the Best Dressed Residence and Best Dressed Business competitions.
Each day from December 1 to Christmas Eve, the council will be unveiling a different competition, puzzle or retailer offer through media outlets.
Events co-ordinator Jessica Swan said the calendar was designed for everyone.
‘‘You don’t have to be a child to participate or win prizes. Plus, we will be working with local retailers and activity providers to help with your Christmas shopping and holidays.’’
The council was grateful for the continuing support of local businesses who came on board with the new concept, she said.
There will also be competitions for the best decorated residence and best decorated business.
The best decorated residence winner will receive a scenic flight over Gore for up to four people, to the value of $500, thanks to High Country Helicopters.
Miss Swan said restrictions around social gatherings, coupled with the complexity and size of the Santa Parade, would have led to an unrecognisable event that just a few could attend.
‘‘With float entries closing soon, we had to make the call now before people started going to all the effort of making floats.
‘‘We also wanted to ensure our sponsors were given plenty of notice.’’
She said not to worry as Santa would get to Gore this year.
‘‘We have been in contact with Santa’s team to ensure he can still visit us safely in December with smaller, localised visits.’’
