The Pak’N Save Pāpāmoa Superhero Santa Parade is taking place this morning with expectations that this year's parade will be "the best yet".

Parade organiser, Julia Manktelow from Pāpāmoa Unlimited says the streets of Pāpāmoa are gearing up for an unforgettable celebration.

"On Sunday, December 8, Tauranga’s official Santa Parade is back, and we're bringing all the superhero energy you can handle," Manktelow said.

"This year's parade promises to be bigger, brighter, and filed with true Pāpāmoa pride.

"From creative superhero-themed floats to the arrival of the Big Man in Red himself, this event is a can’t-miss for over 20,000 attendees.”

The parade which kicks off at 10.30am from Dickson Rd at Alexander Place will follow a route along Dickson Rd to Domain Rd then to Pāpāmoa Plaza, finishing around 12.30pm.

Manktelow said it will include a Superhero Showcase, with Tauranga’s own superheroes and wrap up at Pāpāmoa Plaza, “where Santa himself will be waiting in his magical grotto to greet the little ones”.

“Santa’s Grotto is absolutely stunning – a perfect way to capture the spirit of the season.”

Pāpāmoa Unlimited's Julia Manktelow in Santa's Grotto in Pāpāmoa Plaza. Photo/Supplied.

The event will also highlight ‘A Decade of Heroes’, Manktelow said.

“A heartfelt thank you to PAK’nSAVE Pāpāmoa for their 10 years of incredible support through Pāpāmoa Unlimited, our not-for-profit team making it all happen.

"The beloved community event is all about bringing people together to celebrate creativity, teamwork, and festive joy."

The competition is on for who will take away the title of ‘Best Float Overall 2024’. The coveted Pāpāmoa plaque spent the past year with double reigning champions Maungatapu Kindergarten.

Julia Manktelow with the 'Best Overall Float' trophy. Photo/Supplied.

“More than 400 volunteers have come together to create 110 metres of spectacular floats, guaranteed to light up the region with smiles and inspiration,” Manktelow said.

Traffic and safety

Parents are asked to keep children off the road and safely behind barriers.

“Please do not cross roads along the parade trail, especially near Pāpāmoa Plaza,” Manktelow said.

“Be kind to our amazing staff and volunteers - they’re superheroes too, working tirelessly to make this day magical for all.”

Road closures begin at 9am and will reopen as the parade progresses. Fencing has been in place from 5am near Pāpāmoa Plaza.

Bus users are advised to check the Tauranga City bus updates for any schedule changes.

Tauranga City Council advises that the following road closures will be in place for this event:  

From 8am – 2pm on Sunday, December 8 2024

• Dickson Road (from Longview Drive to Douglas Place) 

From 9am – 2pm on Sunday, December 8 2024

• Dickson Road (from Douglas Place to Domain Road)
• Domain Road (from Percy Road to Gravatt Road

“This parade is a testament to what our community can achieve together, and we can’t wait to see everyone for a celebration like no other, said Manktelow.

Don your capes, and join us for a day filled with smiles, festive cheer, and superhero fun. Let’s make this year’s parade the best yet.”

The Pak’N Save Pāpāmoa Superhero Santa Parade runs today from 10.30am – 12.30pm from Dickson Road to Domain Road to Pāpāmoa Plaza.