I invite all Nelsonians to join in the many community festivities over coming weeks and help us ensure a fun, safe and inclusive Christmas.
This Sunday, from 1pm to 3pm, we have the NBS Nelson Santa Parade along Trafalgar Street. A huge thanks to the Santa Parade Trust and all the businesses and groups involved. I love the increasing number of multicultural floats representing our growing ethnic communities.
The Deputy Mayor and I will be joining in the fun by swapping clothes and riding a tandem bike. Rohan O'Neill-Stevens has dared me to wear his most out there 20-something attire while he will be wearing my bad-taste Christmas suit. It won’t be attractive or comfortable!
I also invite Nelsonians to check out the Christmas Tree Festival of more than 60 diversely decorated trees in our beautiful Christ Church Cathedral. The carol singing events at Washbourn Gardens in Richmond on Saturday the 16th and on the Cathedral Steps by candlelight on Sunday 24th are also special events.
I am a big fan of the hundreds of Nelson homes that display the most incredible mix of Christmas lights and thank those who go to all this effort for others’ enjoyment.
I wish that no-one in our community is without family or friends to celebrate Christmas Day. That is why I am hosting the Nelson Mayor’s Christmas Dinner at the Pūtangitangi Greenmeadows Centre in Stoke. Free transport available from anywhere in Nelson. The delicious meal and entertainment is complimentary.
I am very grateful to Mitre 10 Mega’s Community Engagement Manager Murray Leaning, chef Sophie Leaning and the amazing team of volunteers for their support. We would love to hear from you if you would like to join us, need transport or can help as a volunteer. Please call or text 021 340 553 or email famcarp123@hotmail.com. Please also pass on this invite to anyone you know who may face being alone on Christmas Day.
Council is also supporting New Year’s Eve’s Countdown in the City with popular local bands in Upper Trafalgar Street from 6pm to 12.30am. My hope is that everyone gets to share in this coming season of joy, giving and hope.
