Santa's back in town

Santa waves to the thousands that turned out to the annual Farmers Santa Parade. Photo / Greg Bowker

After the dancers, the 41 floats, the clowns, the bands ... here's the star of the big parade, Santa Claus himself, with his reindeer, his helpers and his big bag of toys, promising Christmas joy for all the good children.

About a quarter of a million people lined the streets of downtown Auckland yesterday to welcome Santa, making his 76th appearance in the annual Farmers' Parade.

Forecast rain stayed away, and parents, grandparents and children flocked into town from early in the morning to find the best viewing spots. More than 4000 volunteers took part in the 2.2km parade, which was led by the grand marshall, this year All White Ivan Vicelich, assisted by children on the team he coaches.