There's nothing quite like Christmas in the city, from all the beautiful decorations, to Santa and his reindeer on the Farmers building, you cannot help but embrace the festive spirit. We've gathered together a family-friendly itinerary for a festive day out in the city, centred around one of the biggest events of the year - the Farmers Santa Parade now rescheduled to Sunday 2 December.
Morning
Gather the troops and make your way into the city, secure a good parking spot and make a breakfast pit stop for you and your troops, to fuel up for the day ahead. Here's a list of some of our favourite breakfasting spots in the city centre.
*Parking Tip*
On Sunday 2 December, park at AT Downtown or AT Victoria car parks and if you are in before 11am and exited by 6pm, parking is free! (Please note exit before 2pm and after 6pm will incur a fee - but there is $2 an hour parking available outside these hours - click here for more info.) Or take advantage of AT's 99c weekend fares on public transport - click here for more details.
Next, wander up to SKYCITY and check out their charming Christmas market, it's the perfect chance to make a start on your Christmas shopping list and find something unique for your loved ones.
If attention spans are starting to fade, why not take the kids down Victoria Street to see the giant Santa on the Farmers building and then on to Smith & Caughey's to see this year's Christmas window installation 'The Nutcracker'. This will also give you a chance to find a good spot for Farmer's Santa Parade viewing on Queen Street.
Santa & his reindeer on the corner of Queen & Victoria Street.
Afternoon
As 1pm gets near, make sure you've got everyone settled in their viewing spot and enjoy the spectacle of the parade unfold in front of you, this year's extravaganza is going to be the best yet. After Santa rides past on his big red sleigh, meet up with him again at Santa's Party in Aotea Square, where there's plenty more fun to be had with rides, giveaways and more.
Santa on his big red sleigh in the Farmers Santa Parade.
Or head back to Smith & Caughey's and explore Santa's Enchanted Forest plus you can meet the man himself and get a photo with him. For more details, click here.
Get a photo with Santa at Smith & Caughey's and explore the Enchanted Forest.
As the day is beginning to wind down and it's almost time to head home, why not make one last stop for a sweet treat to keep everyone quiet on the trip home! Our guide to the Best Desserts in Aotea Arts Quarter, might just come in handy while you're in the vicinity.
Colourful delights at Aqua S.
Enjoy your visit to the city this Christmas and for your complete guide to the festive season in the city centre click here.
Enjoy two hours of free parking or $5 evening and weekend rates. Find out more.
Ride on public transport from as little as $2 each way. Find out more.
Last updated:
21 August 2020
