Community asked to give generously

Santa’s Wonderland. Supplied photos.

Rotorua Museum and Rotorua Library are celebrating the festive season in true Christmas spirit with the return of the Rotorua Museum Community Christmas Tree.

After a tough 2020, they are asking for local support in the form of donated gifts to a worthy cause, the Waiariki Women's Refuge.

Donations are welcome until January 7, however, families might like to bring along gifts when they attend the Christmas Festival on Saturday 19 December (10am – 3pm).

The festival will take place in Jean Batten Square located between Rotorua Library and the Rotorua i-SITE and Visitor Centre.

As well as visiting Santa's Wonderland there is a wide range of free activities for kids to enjoy: stilt walkers, giant bubbles, Christmas plaster painting, crafts, balloon and drumming workshops, crafts and face painting.

Community Christmas Tree at Rotorua Library, 2017

There will be entertainment from The Thermaleles ukulele band, the Rotorua Municipal Brass Band and other local performers.

For those last minute Christmas gifts there will be a range of homemade craft stalls and some delicious food caravans for some treats while you are at the festival.

If those attending the festival are able to contribute a gift to the Community Christmas Tree, it will go a long way in making a challenging festive period just that little bit special.

Waiariki Women's Refuge manager Paula Coker sends out a big thank you to everyone who donates on behalf of the refuge staff and the women and children in their care.

'These gifts add a special touch for families under women's refuge care during extremely tough times," says Paula.

All gifts should have a gift tag indicating whether it is for a boy, girl or mother and the suitable age range.

Balloon Man.

Rotorua Museum Events and Engagement Lead, Tori Williams, believes it is a good chance for children to understand and experience the gift of giving at Christmas time.

'Some children find some of their own toys to give to kids in need. If they are still in good condition but aren't played with them anymore, that's perfect. Other kids have used some of their own pocket money to buy some toys. It is a lovely feeling."

For further information please contact tori.williams@rotorualc.nz or phone 07 351 8055.

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