Shane Waldron could see himself in the less fortunate children he gave gifts to in Dunedin yesterday.
After having a ‘‘ rough childhood'', the Skyfitness Gym instructor decided last year he would spread some cheer by distributing presents to children who might otherwise miss out.
Dressed as Santa's head elf, he and former All Black Paul Miller, who was dressed as Santa, delivered presents to 91 children from 35 Dunedin households - a big boost on last year, when he gave presents to 20 households.
It was ‘‘pretty special'' seeing the reactions on the children's faces, he said.
‘‘It is pretty emotional. There was a few tears from parents ... and the wee kids running straight up and diving into Santa's arms.''The inspiration for his generosity was his own childhood.
‘‘I was one of those kids myself growing up - having a bit of a rough time, a bit of a struggle.''
Nicole Spark said the visit made an ‘‘absolutely huge'' difference to son Jaxon's Christmas.
Nearly 38 weeks pregnant, she could not afford to buy her son a Christmas present.
The presents made Jaxon's day.
