"It was an opportunity for retailers to give back to the community via their rates.
"The residential ratepayers aren't paying. It's something the businesses are paying," he said.
"It's not about take, take, take but engaging by bringing the business and residential communities together."
The retailers were keen to pay because there would be a united voice for marketing Papamoa as a destination, he said.
Other events on the calendar included a lantern festival, kite festival, a hills-to-sea fun run and a mid-winter swim, he said.
"We will be asking everybody what they want and delivering and appointing a co-ordinator to manage the events but we have to get the cab off the rank with the Santa parade first."
Papamoa Santa parade events manager Kate Percy said organisers were trying to engage businesses, schools and organisations.
"I just want them to get excited about it and share in the parade."
Response had been positive, she said.
"Everyone that I have encountered is keen to be involved in some way. They all seem to be really receptive of the idea which is fantastic. Now I am just trying to get around everybody to see if they are keen to put in floats and we are looking at acts to put in between each float, whether it is BMX or dancing, that will give the parade more excitement and colour."
Papamoa Lions Club treasurer Kelvin Bennett said the area was the fastest-growing suburb in Tauranga and events were one way of getting people involved with the community.
"I think it can only be good. Papamoa is now an entity on its own and the Santa parade is a good idea. I am more than happy with it. The Lions have been asked to help where possible and I am sure we will do something towards it."
The other events had to be a positive move for Papamoa as well, he said.