Click the image above to view slideshow

It is the season to be jolly and most of the Bay of Plenty were out in force today with Christmas Parades taking place throughout the region.

Tauranga was full throttle with thousands heading to the CBD to see the jolly red fellow. More than 50 floats took part in this year's event and it had families cheering all in anticipation of the main star of the show Santa Clause.

As usual he didn't disappoint with children getting the chance to wave and cheer for the big man.

And as if by magic at the same time in Te Puke kids of all ages got their chance to have fun with Santa Claus. As the town came alive with thousands of Te Puke residents getting to the centre of town which was full of Christmas cheer and about 22 floats taking part in the parade.

Katikati was also rocking with the sounds of joy and cheer from families taking part in their big event which saw their parade weave its way to Moore Park.

The of course in Rotorua the littlies got to see Santa who still had plenty of special treats to give out to the youngsters to help make their day. Again thousands were on hand as well wishers enjoyed the colourful sights and sounds form those taking part in the parade.

Te Puke