Katikati Santa Parade rolls out with decorated wheels competition

The Katikati Lions are encouraging people of all ages to get into the festive spirit this Saturday by entering their decorated wheels competitions as part of the annual Santa Parade. The parade kicks off at 3pm from Katikati College on Beach Rd, winding its way down through Carisbrooke Stand to Moore Park, where KatchKatikati is hosting Christmas in the Park from 3.30pm to 5pm.

In a first for the event, the Lions are running a decorated mobility and electric scooter competition this year, with cash prizes donated by Summerset by the Sea — $40 for first place, $20 for second and $10 for third. Club PR person Jo Hurne said entrants simply need to decorate their scooter and dress up fancy for a chance to win.

A separate Decorated Wheels competition for younger tamariki — organised by the Katikati Leos — will also take place at the college front field, with judging from 2.30pm. No registration is required; youngsters just need to turn up with their decorated bikes, though they must be accompanied by an adult. There are 19 floats lined up for the parade overall, including three vintage vehicle and tractor groups.

Local resident Alan Taylor is among those entering the mobility scooter competition, planning to dress up his scooter with the help of his mokopuna who is visiting for the occasion.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).