Santa's arrived! Here are Newshub's top picks for visiting Santa for that perfect family photo.
Snowplanet
Dates: 17 November - 24 December
Santa's magic castle at Snowplanet - Auckland's indoor snow dome - makes for wonderful wintery photos. Families travel up the travelator to the magic castle to meet Santa. Photos are taken of the whole experience, from when the children meet Santa, in Santa's sleigh, and beside his roaring fire. There is the option to grab a snow tube to whiz down the tree-line tubing track - a fun activity for all.
Prices start at $9 per person, and bookings are essential - phone 09 427 0199 or email santa@snowplanet.co.nz.
Smith & Caughey's
Dates: 23 November - 24 December
A visit to Santa's Enchanted Forest at Smith & Caughey's is the perfect beginning to the festive season. Children will love the Nutcracker puppet window displays, and seeing the twinkling lights in the enchanted forest. Santa spends time showing children around, and every child receives a Christmas tree bauble, and keepsake photo.
The booked (no queue) experience is $30 per child, and the non-booked experience is $15 per child.
For further information phone 09 377 4770 or email santa@smithandcaugheys.co.nz
Westfield Shopping Centres
From 17 November Westfield shopping centres across the country will offer festive experiences including Santa's arrival, photos with Santa, Christmas carols and craft activities.
Pet photos with Santa: Families can get the perfect holiday photo with Santa and the entire family (including the furry members!) at Manukau (from 25 November), St Luke's (from 26 November), and Albany (from 8 December).
Sensory-friendly Santa: Children with sensory challenges can have one-on-one time with Santa in a peaceful and comfortable environment. Available at Manukau (from 24 November), Albany (from 1 December) and St Luke's (from 25 November).
MOTAT
Dates: 13 December - 24 December
Meet Santa and his elves and share in the magic of Christmas. From 8pm fairy lights twinkle throughout MOTAT, even the trams are beautifully lit up. Live entertainment, outdoor movies, tram rides and, of course, Santa's grotto await.
$2 entry fee (children under five are free).
Newshub.
