He must have used some Christmas magic, because somehow he managed to be in three different places at almost the same time.
He appeared in Gore in front of an estimated 3000-5000 people who flooded Gore’s main streets to watch the annual Santa Parade and Christmas Carnival.
About 40 floats entertained the masses, and afterwards, a Christmas Carnival was held in the Main Reserve park.
Gore District Council senior events co-ordinator Jessica Swan said the day was fantastic.
"This is our biggest event of the year and it’s always well supported by the community," she said.
Hundreds attended, including excited 7-year-old Amaya Morgan, who dressed up for the occasion and decorated her scooter with tinsel for the event.
"It is my favourite day of the year."
Organiser Alison Patrick said the event involved dozens of floats, bikes and classic and vintage cars parading through the coastal town.
After the parade, families enjoyed a day of entertainment with live music, food and games for children.
About 30 children took centre stage at the sold-out shows.
Now in its 18th year, this year’s production focused on Yule Cat, played by Scarlett Hamilton, 14, who takes siblings Holly (Scarlett Cruikshank, 9,) and Robin (Charlie Pagan, 11,) on a whirlwind, worldwide magic carpet ride to learn about the history of Christmas and its traditions, including the tree, decorations and stockings, and other ways the holiday is celebrated globally.
