For 29 years, the Invercargill Licensing Trust has shouted a three-course dinner to about 900 senior citizens, complete with entertainment.
However, ILT chief executive Chris Ramsay said the board had to take a different approach as they would be only able to serve 300 people — 150 a night — under Covid-19 rules.
‘‘Last year we had to cut to 250 people per night to maintain appropriate social distancing
‘‘This year, we would be limited even further so we will take Christmas to people this year,’’ he said.
The plan now was to provide up to 900 gift boxes to those aged over 70 residing in Invercargill, including a Christmas cake, truffles, mince pies and shortbread biscuits.
‘‘We are disappointed because it is an evening which I personally, and the rest of our team, really enjoy.
‘‘We will all miss the event part this year but when we look to the balance of everything it is a good outcome as we wanted to spread the Christmas cheer as wide as we could.
‘‘This was deemed to be the best option.’’
Approval had already been given for 260 Christmas dinners at a total cost of $35,000.
However, due to the change of plans, the board has increased the budget by $3800 to enable the assembling of the boxes.
These would be hand-delivered by ILT board and staff on December 14-15.
