5 December 2025, Issue 1289
Santa in the city! It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…especially in the city centre, where Santa is tomorrow hosting the grand opening of his enchanting Southern Hemisphere Grotto. The jolly red man will arrive at Tauranga Waterfront at 9.30am on December 6 aboard the Kewpie Cruises boat before
making his way to the grotto at 41 Devonport Rd. Downtown Tauranga manager Genevieve Whitson said the summer-themed Grotto with a Kiwi twist is ready for families to step into the magic of Christmas in the heart of Tauranga. The grotto will be open 10am-3pm on
Saturdays December 6 and 13 – then 10am3pm daily from December 16-21, and December 23-24 for all who want to enjoy an enchanting space of festivities. “Santa’s Grotto will be a wonderland bursting with vibrant decorations, funky festive zones, and joyful activities for the whole whānau and anyone young at heart,”
said Whitson. “So come along to the grand opening tomorrow and snap a photo, share a hug, or high-five the jolly man himself – Santa and his cheerful Elf will be there to spread smiles and Christmas cheer! “Meri Kirihimete, Merry Christmas Tauranga!” Read more on page 35. Photo / Merle Cave