Smaller shopping districts holiday scene
Often it falls on smaller communities to organise their own festive celebrations as the larger centres dominate with fanfare.
Moera Community Centre coordinator Lesley Lennon says five years-ago the area held a successful Christmas party in the local park that attracted over 300 people, but a lack of funds and time has meant it was a one-off.
“There is not enough time and funding for these things, it’s a lot of hard work.
“You could spend three months just getting enough fundraising for the summer festival,” says Mrs Lennon.
The local transition town group that organises Moera’s community garden are normally at the centre of local events, with artist Sam Broad normally at the centre of things.
“They get up to some things in the community hall, but there has scarcely been enough funding ... this year was a little better than the past 14, which started us on a good foot,” she says.
Moera Librarian Moera says a Christmas tree covered in decorations is a tradition for the building. Children’s story times are also themed to the season and relevant books and material are on display. In Eastbourne window dressing and lighting adds to that areas festive atmosphere.
Tawa business association chairperson Karen Pettigrew says a newly opened shop called Village Gifts is attracting much attention.
“He has only opened this year and is attracting people to his window display, which has this lovely big train set going with an engine and all the works.
“It just goes round and round and the kids love it, there is also a Santa that climbs up and down a little white ladder,” says Mrs Pettigrew.
The association’s efforts last year have ensured another large public Christmas tree for the shopping precinct, which is also adored with banners and lights.
“It’s a real treat at night-time, but because of daylight savings – probably its only downfall – you have to stay up really late to see it,” she says.
What are your views? Should smaller suburbs be given a better helping hand in organising community events, what would you like to see more of in your area? Email The Petone Herald editor@pcn.co.nz or phone 237 3208.
