The Katikati Lions want residents – young and old alike – to wheely get into their Santa parade this Saturday afternoon by entering the decorated wheels competitions.
In a first, the club is this year running a decorated mobility and electric scooter competition.
“This year we’re asking folks to decorate their mobility or electric scooter and dress up fancy to be in to win cash prizes,” said Katikati Lion and club PR person Jo Hurne.
Katikati resident Alan Taylor is entering his mobility scooter in the decorated wheels competitions. Photo / Merle Cave
“Cash prizes have been donated by Summerset by the Sea. First prize is $40, second is $20 and third will receive $10.” Those interested need to register by phoning Warwick on 022 600 9733 or email: kklions.santaparade@lionsclubs.org.nz
2.30pm judging
Hurne said scooter riders must then turn up at Katikati College’s front field tomorrow, December 6, for 2.30pm judging. “After judging contestants are welcome to join the Santa parade too – which starts at 3pm and heads from the college on to Carisbrooke St and flows down to Moore Park.”
For youngsters, Katikati Leos is running its annual Decorated Wheels Competition for two age groups – those 5 and under, and ages 6-10.
“For this, children are invited to decorate their bikes in Christmas theme – and they must bring their helmets too.” First prize is $25, second is $15, and six entries will win $5 each.
“Registration is not required for youngsters – they just need to turn up with their bikes at the Katikati College front field by 2.30pm for judging,” said Hurne.
3pm parade start
She said youngsters are welcome to join the parade too – but they must be accompanied by an adult.
Hurne said the Lions invite the Katikati community to come and enjoy the spirit of Christmas at the Santa parade. “We have 19 floats – including three vintage vehicle and tractor groups – to bring smiles to all who come to view it,” said Hurne.
The best place to watch the parade is from the berms on Carisbrooke St, she said. Floats will then park up at Moore Park, where Katch Katikati’s Christmas in the Park is on from 3.30pm-5pm.
Christmas in the Park
Katch Katikati marketing manager Fiona Powell said Christmas in the Park will have live entertainment, featuring Beat Street Drummers, Melissa Cox and Big Road Blues, plus children’s entertainment, market stalls and food for sale.
The event promised big beats and a whole lot of family fun, said Powell.
“This year’s stage line-up brings together three very different acts, each set to add their own flavour to the afternoon.
Derek Jacombs and Grant Bullot’s laid-back, rootsy sound is perfect for a summer afternoon in the park. Photo / Supplied
“Beat Street Drummers will bring serious energy to Moore Park. Known for their viral TikTok and Instagram clips, this high-impact percussion group features some of Tauranga’s most talented young musicians.
“Together they create explosive rhythms, infectious grooves and a street-party vibe that gets every crowd moving – from city streets to music festivals and sports arenas. Expect noise, energy and plenty of wow factor,” Powell said.
They’ll be followed by Melissa Cox, a classically trained vocalist whose voice was described as “a cross between Loreena McKennitt and Jefferson Airplane’s Grace Slick” by Sing Out! magazine in the United States.
“With more than 30 years of performing and songwriting experience, Melissa loves putting her own spin on favourites from the 1960s through to today, alongside much-loved Christmas carols and her own original holiday songs.”
Rounding out the afternoon is Big Road Blues, a spin-off from longstanding Bay of Plenty blues ’n’ roots band Kokomo.
“Returning to the band’s early roots in acoustic blues, Derek Jacombs, on vocals and guitar and Grant Bullot, on harmonica and washboard have been performing together since 1991 and have graced blues and jazz stages all over Aotearoa. Their laid-back, rootsy sound is perfect for a summer afternoon in the park!”
Around the grounds, families can browse market stalls, try their luck at a Lucky Dip, and enjoy food vendors in the park and inside the rugby clubrooms.
“It’s an easy way to grab a bite to eat, pick up a small gift and enjoy the atmosphere after the parade.”
Free kids’ activities
For tamariki, free activities will include pony cart rides, giant outdoor games, face painting and a circus workshop.
This year, there’s an extra buzz thanks to the Katikati Youth Action Krew (YAKs), supported by Katikati Community Led Development (KKCLD), said Powell.
“After Youth Connector Leticia Kuizinas, for KKCLD, approached Katch Katikati events manager Kylie Watkins with a proposal to add even more fun for local kids, the team jumped at the opportunity!”
As part of their mission to make Katikati a better place for youth, by youth, the YAKs have lined up a bouncy castle and even festive “snow” to bring a touch of winter magic to the event.
Kuizinas said the youth are thrilled to take part. “Our young people are super excited to be hosting some activities at this year’s event. They want to help amp up the fun factor for local kids and make the afternoon really enjoyable for everyone in this festive time.”
Christmas in the Park is supported by the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund.
“It’s a chance for everyone to slow down, come together and soak up that festive feeling close to home,” said Katch Katikati events manager Kylie Watkins.
“Grab your family, bring your friends, and make an afternoon of it – enjoy the live music, let the kids go wild on the free activities and just enjoy the festive vibe in our beautiful town.”