Lonely hearts ask Santa for girlfriends

The thought of a lonely Christmas has driven adults to call Telecom's Santa Line to ask for girlfriends under the tree.

Among the usual messages from kids asking for dolls and bikes, a number of adults have also asked for engagement rings, new cars, lingerie and plane tickets to visit loved ones.

Telecom spokeswoman Rebecca Earl said there had also been "a heart-warming rise" in the number of requests for peace and happiness.

"It's been a tough year, and it seems that many New Zealanders are wishing for a joyful 2010 to come out of Santa's sack this Christmas," says Ms Earl.

The top five requests from children this year were gaming consols and games, mobile phones, computers, dolls and trampolines.

The Santa Line, 0800 222 222, had been operating since 1993.

Santa also had a website, www.santaline.co.nz, where he could be contacted until 24 December.

- NZPA