Auckland’s much-loved Santa Parade will bring cheer to the City’s streets once again this Christmas. Auckland Council will now take over funding of the event to the tune of $45,000.

Mayor Phil Goff and Councillor Cathy Casey had previously expressed concerns for the parade’s future following a statement from Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED) that it would cease its funding contributions, leaving a potential $45,000 funding shortfall.

Following strong advocacy from the Mayor and Cr Casey, and a unanimous resolution from the Community Development and Safety Committee to ask ATEED to reconsider its withdrawal of funding, ATEED today confirmed its decision to transfer the funds to Council’s Arts, Community and Events department to fund the parade.

Mayor Goff said, “ATEED’s initial call was the wrong one. I’m pleased that the right decision has now been made so that our kids can continue to enjoy the excitement of seeing Santa in the city.”

Councillor Cathy Casey said, “I am delighted that ATEED has reconsidered their funding position and acknowledges there is a public good component to events like the Farmers Santa Parade. It has been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of Aucklanders for the last eighty years and I am pleased that its future has been secured.”

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