What better way to begin summer, than to get dressed up and dance, sing and generally make a commotion, amid thousands of smiling faces at the Upper Hutt Santa Parade. Complete with ice-blocks, pavlova and home-made sushi to cool down after being in the Upper Hutt sun.

The Upper Hutt Santa Parade is one of our favourite events of the year. It gives local cultural communities, who may often be quite shy, a moment in the spotlight while the whole city has gathered to smile, wave and enjoy. Do not underestimate the significance of this experience for our communities, to allow them to feel safe, accepted and celebrated by all.

On Sunday morning, the UHMCC office was full of children, food, balloons, costumes and instruments. With spectacular dancers from the South Sudanese and Luo communities, drummers from the Chinese senior community, as well as some young Lion Dancers, we know we made quite an impression in the parade. Afterward we returned to the office for a shared lunch and socialising. Feedback from the community was immensely positive and we highly look forward to the next one. Thank you to everyone who came along and everyone who got into the festive spirit and helped everything come together. Meri kirihimete ki a koutou.