For those organised ones, they may well know what is coming, as they personally informed Santa weeks ago.
However, what was a steady trickle into New Zealand Post's Dunedin mail centre turned into a torrent late last month as about 9000 Otago and Southland children sent letters to Santa.
New Zealand Post staff and "Santa's letter helper" Colleen Eckhoff ensured Santa responded to each letter with a return address.
Letters, drawings and cards addressed to the big guy at the North Pole contained good wishes for Santa and present wish lists.
Among the most popular items requested this year were iPods, cellphones and anything to do with Ben 10, Hannah Montana and High School Musical.
While one child put his trust in Santa's taste in presents by simply requesting "pretty purple shoes", another wrote words of warning at the bottom of their list: "And anything else you feel I will like.
But be careful, I may not actually like it."Another child thought a bit outside the box when they requested "real super powers" and "a real rokit [sic]".
Others clearly wanted to ensure they would be on the "nice" list by telling Santa "I have been very good this year and I still believe" and "Christmas wouldn't exist without you Santa".
Travelling for holidays proved a concern for some, so they enclosed their alternative address, whether that be in Tasmania or Ettrick, and one wanted Santa to stay safe on his travels.
"I will leave milk and cookies out for you because Mum says no beer.
"Don't drink and drive."It was Mrs Eckhoff's first year helping Santa, and while she was not able to read all the letters, those she did made her smile with their innocence.
