Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves began their annual pre-Christmas holiday in Wanaka last weekend.
They are staying at the Upper Clutha Community Christmas Trust’s grotto set up in the Sidey Auditorium of the Wanaka Community Hub.
Children still have this weekend to visit Santa and tell him what they hope to get for Christmas.
The grotto is open today, 4pm-5.30pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10am-noon and again from 2pm-4pm.
Yeverley McCarthy is on the grotto welcoming committee.
She said about 400 people had visited on Monday alone, while at least 1500 visitors were expected through by the end of this week.
Proceeds would be used for donations to Food 4 Love, the Food Bank and St John and also to fund the 2025 Santa’s Grotto.
The Winter Wonderland display also includes 24 decorated Christmas trees, with 18 presented by local businesses. Visitors can vote for their favourite tree.
Entry is by koha, and photos with Santa are permitted.
