Santa Claus is coming to town, but he needs a new set of wheels to arrive in.
The Richmond Santa Parade is back for 2026, due to take place on Sunday, December 6. And while the float entries are rolling in, the big man himself is still looking for a new mode of transport.
In previous years Santa has been on a giant sleigh, the same one used for the Nelson Santa Parade. But this year Santa has decided he wants something unique for the Richmond parade and is asking the community for ideas.
Richmond Unlimited Event co-ordinator Huia Rentoul says ideas for Santa’s ride can be sent to her, as Richmond Unlimited is organising the parade on behalf of Santa.
“We’d love to see something fresh and bold for Santa. I’m sure there are some amazing vehicles or trailers in our region that would be suitable for Santa to drive down Queen St in. We’d be delighted if people came forward with some ideas for us.”
While the final details are being added to Santa’s mode of transport for the parade, Huia says it’s not too late for community floats to be entered into the parade.
“We’ve already had a good number of entries but we’d love to see more. The more floats we have the better the parade is for everyone who comes to watch it.”
If you have an idea for Santa’s sleigh or you’d like to enquire about entering a float into this year’s parade, email Huia at events@richmondunlimited.co.nz
