The man in red will be popping up all over Central in the coming days for children to tell him about wishlists and snaffle some sweets, while parents take photographs and make memories.

Puna Rangitahi Alexandra and Districts Youth Trust has Santa on site for digital photos on Friday, December 16 from 9am until 5.30pm - to book your spot it costs $10, email [email protected].

Following the photos there will be a sausage sizzle, and late night shopping is on offer. 

The Central community is invited to Alexandra’s Pioneer Park on Sunday, December 18 for ‘Christmas in the Park’ - a family friendly picnic event.

Mrs Claus confirmed on Facebook that Santa will be attending with an oversupply of lollies to distribute to youngsters.

Central Otago Libraries have sessions in Alexandra (10am on December 19); Roxburgh (11.30am on December 19); the following day at the Māniototo Library (10am on December 20); and Cromwell Library (1.30pm on December 20).

A spokesperson for the big guy said it’s best to call your library first to book your time slot.

Santa’s schedule for his library appearances in Central

Central’s libraries are running a reading challenge this summer and five $50 Paper Plus vouchers will go to winners. Young readers can sign up for the challenge after they have checked the legitimacy of Santa’s beard.

For children who might be nervous about meeting Santa, Mrs Claus said he is “a big gentle softie” and why not surprise him with a joke and make his day.

For more information about Christmas in the Park see the Central App What’s on button (under the main menu - Things to do).