Christmas on the Coast returns with a parade and day of free festive fun
1 Dec 2025
Kāpiti Coast District Council is inviting the community to come together for this year’s Christmas on the Coast Parade and Festival in Paraparaumu on Saturday 13 December 2025.
Mayor Janet Holborow says she’s excited to celebrate the festive season with such a popular and well-loved event.
“Around 10,000 people enjoyed the parade and festival last year, and we’re sure this year will be just as colourful and a wonderful way for our community to come together for some festive fun.”
More than 25 floats have signed up for the event, organised by schools, community groups, sports groups, and businesses.
"It's great to see the community getting behind the festival, which can only happen thanks to the kind generosity of local businesses,” says Mayor Holborow.
The day begins at 11am with the Christmas Parade starting at Paraparaumu College and making its way along Mazengarb Road to Mazengarb Reserve on Scaife Drive.
There’s still time to register a float or register as a business if you are able to offer free children's activities. Please apply on our website by Sunday 7 December, 5pm.
At the reserve, people will find the Christmas on the Coast Festival, with live entertainment, more than twenty food trucks, and a range of free children’s activities such as a bounce zone, face painting, games, crafts, and Santa’s Grotto, all running until 3pm.
"A big thanks to The Grange by Thames Pacific, Voyle & Co and our other sponsors and volunteers for their generous support which makes this event possible," says Mayor Holborow.
Things to note:
- People are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade.
- Mazengarb Road will be closed from 11am to 12pm.
- Dedicated parking spots will be available, however, people are encouraged to walk, bike, or catch the bus if they can.
- The event is smoke-free and vape-free, and pet-free – please leave your dogs at home.
- Council events embrace sustainable principles, with an emphasis on waste reduction and encouraging reusable items such as water bottles. Water and sunscreen stations will be available.
Low-Sensory Christmas Celebration
"We recognise large, noisy events aren’t for everyone, so Council is also hosting a low-sensory Christmas event for tamariki," says Mayor Holborow.
"The event includes all-abilities play, crafts, face painting, ice creams, and even a visit from Santa!"
The Low-Sensory Christmas Celebration is being held on Saturday 20 December between 10am and 12pm at the Paraparaumu Library. Quiet spaces will be available, and support staff are welcome.
“These events have been created with affordability and whānau fun in mind, and we warmly invite everyone to join us for the festivities," says Mayor Holborow.
For more information, visit kapiticoast.govt.nz/christmas.