Just like the song 'We Wish You a Merry Christmas,' Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board are spreading joy and cheer this season with several Christmas events.
While for many, Christmas is one of the most wonderful times of the year, it can also be one of the hardest for some.
That’s why the board and local community partners are working to ease that burden by offering free, festive events for everyone.
Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says, “It's important that a time when people will be busy enjoying gatherings of family and friends, for some in our community, it can be the loneliest time. These free public events provide an opportunity for strangers to come together and leave as friends."
The festivities begin with the Senior Matua Christmas Party on 6 December, hosted by Te Puke ō Tara Community Centre, a special event dedicated to celebrating the seniors in the community. This heartwarming gathering is a chance to show love and appreciation for the older residents, offering them a festive and joyful experience filled with care and connection.
“Although it is a Christian celebration, in the spirit of the faith, Christmas is a time of giving and opening one's doors to others. All faiths and cultures can attend these public events and enjoy the community spirit,” adds Apulu.
Next up, the highly anticipated Papatoetoe Santa Parade Party, delivered by Papatoetoe Central Main Street Society, will light up the streets of Papatoetoe on Wednesday 4 December, starting at 5pm.
The evening kicks off with a fun-filled kids’ park, followed by the festive parade with lots of locals involved at 7pm and a concert at 7:30pm. It's a delightful celebration for the whole family, with plenty of entertainment for all ages. The Board is proud to be one of the key supporters, contributing $28,000 to help make this event possible.
To wrap up the holiday celebrations, is the 274 Christmas Carnival on Monday 16 December. This annual event is packed with festive fun, including live entertainment, free burgers and ice blocks, Disney mascots, giveaways, parade show, carnival rides, food stalls and much more. With $28,000 board funding for marketing, activities, food, and everything in between, it’s sure to be a fantastic day for the whole family. Organised by the Community Builders NZ Trust, it’s the perfect way to end off the celebrations.
Apulu shares, “The board is proud to partner with awesome community organisations such as the Community Builders NZ Trust, and the Papatoetoe Mainstreet Society, to bring these Christmas celebrations to our diverse communities. Thank you to all involved in serving our community this festive season.”
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