Granny’s Christmas Grotto

Granny’s Christmas Grotto

For the last 20 years, Jennifer Greener has brought Christmas wonder to the people of Marton.

Jennifer has created her own Christmas grotto — a place where children and adults can escape the busy pre-Christmas build-up and experience the wonder that has inspired many a child’s Christmas dream.

“I have an absolute passion for Christmas. It’s a time when we should all be sharing and caring about each other — and not just family,” says Jennifer.

In order to grow her collection, which is worth an estimated $50,000, Jennifer makes huge sacrifices every year.

Max Whitehead has known Jennifer for many years: “It’s a wonderful thing to see someone give so selflessly to their community.”

There are 11 separate themed areas, which include areas of red, white, crystal, ginger bread and candy canes. The Kiwiana beach theme is particularly popular with jandals, Marmite sandwiches and sand and buckets on the floor. Because Jennifer happens to be a train buff, there are also more than 200 trains, all with a Christmas theme, of course.

“It takes at least 30 minutes to take a guided tour,” she says.

Jennifer used to house the Christmas Grotto in her own home. However, with about 1500 people visiting from all over New Zealand every Christmas, she has become a victim of her own success and now leases rooms and charges $3 per adult and $2 per child to cover expenses.

ENDS

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