Bluey is expected to be a big hit at this year’s Farmers Santa Parade 2024, with help from the city’s newest helpers.
Two iconic characters, Santa and Queen Street, are set to make their 91st appearance at Auckland’s historic Farmers Santa Parade on Sunday, 24 November (rain day 1 December). The parade, which started in 1933 by Farmers founder Robert Laidlaw, continues to offer fantasy and excitement for Auckland’s children.
Santa is always the main attraction, but Queen Street has also been a staple of the parade for 91 years, making it one of the longest-running parades in the southern hemisphere. Over the years, Queen Street has transformed from a four-lane road with narrow sidewalks to a two-lane, plant-filled street, creating a more intimate parade experience.
This year, the beloved TV character Bluey will join the parade for the first time, delighting fans with her own float. Bluey and Bingo will also bring their live show to Santa’s Party at the end of the parade.
Auckland’s Deputy Mayor, Desley Simpson, will participate in the parade as well.
New to the parade this year are the city centre’s newest ‘elves’—a team of community wardens from Auckland Council Community Safety Team, New Zealand Police, Māori wardens, Community Patrols NZ, and Auckland Transport. They will dress up their uniforms with Christmas tinsel and walk with their families, joining Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, who waves from a vintage car every year. 
Gold medalist high jumper Hamish Kerr, fresh from the 2024 Olympics, will be the grand marshal, kicking off the parade. The procession will include a float made entirely of LEGO®, a giant pink guitar inspired by K-pop, and a Kiwiana caravan float that captures the Kiwi summer spirit.
Additional funds from Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate are helping to bring the Farmers Santa Parade to life this year.
Source: Auckland Council