Diesel-chugging and gas-guzzling vehicles have been shown the red card by organisers of Waiheke Island’s Christmas parade.
Funded by Waiheke Local Board, organisers are taking a fossil-fuel-free approach and aiming for a clean and green Christmas.
The “Fossil Fuel Free Fiesta” challenges local groups and businesses to consider the environment as part of their entries. Bikes, horses, skateboards, roller-blades, scooters, prams, wind, solar and electric vehicles, are all okay, and people-powered entries are especially welcome.
As part of Auckland Council’s ‘Community Empowerment’ programme, organising the parade, and markets that follow, is in the hands of the Once Upon an Island Trust and Waiheke Community Childcare.
Both groups are working to pull together a festive celebration starting with the parade on Saturday 15 December at 3pm and continuing with the market at Artworks from 4pm.
Once Upon an Island Trust has also applied to the local board for creative communities funding to enable artists and float-makers to offer workshops to support local groups with their entries.
The popular Artworks market after the parade continue with the clean and green theme, with music, food and opportunities for people to make and create.
“This year’s Christmas fiesta will be lively, innovative and hugely entertaining,” board chair Cath Handley says.
“It’s in my diary already because it promises to be a lovely end of year experience for all ages.”
Organisers are looking for sponsorship and volunteers. If you’re keen to be involved email storycentre@gmail.com
