Market becomes winter wonderland

Rotorua's Night Market was packed to the rafters last night with hundreds turning out to celebrate a mid-winter Christmas - complete with a tree.

The market celebrated with a mid-winter Christmas theme as part of the city's annual Fire and Ice Winter Festival.

Tables placed under shop awnings seating up to 160 people were packed with Rotorua residents who came down for a meal or to enjoy the night's entertainment - including a snow machine, which was popular with the children.

The snow was almost as popular as Santa Claus, who made an appearance, which was a big deal since he had been on holiday in the Bahamas recharging his batteries before the real thing in December.

People also donated food items, clothing and winter blankets to the Salvation Army which will be passed on to those in need.

Night Market manager Brigitte Nelson said it was a brilliant night with the community dining together and generally enjoying the occasion.

"It was a big event to organise and was much bigger than our third birthday party.

"The Salvation Army giving station was chock full of donations from the community," she said.

Stall holders got into the Christmas spirit with turkey, eggnog and Christmas cake for sale.