The city centre will be abuzz with kapa haka, belly dancing, choral singing, drumming and Santa this Saturday as part of the Trustpower Toi Tauranga live show performances in Red Square.

Mainstreet Spokesperson Sally Cooke says it all starts at 10am.

'We're celebrating and showcasing our creative sector and community groups with live shows in Red Square and there's an amazing line-up for the public to enjoy.”

Tomorrow's live shows feature Fuse Drumming, Tauranga Intermediate kapa haka, the Vocal Chords Choir and Arabian Spice Belly Dancing.

'The kids can also come and get photos with Santa, plus there's a chance to win tickets to the Black Caps test matches over summer, thanks to Spark Sport too,” says Sally.

Many of the performers in the live shows usually take part in the Trustpower Christmas Parade, which was reformatted into the Trustpower Toi Tauranga Festival this year due to Covid-19.

'Rather than take the risk of not being able to stage the parade due to possible changes in social distancing levels we created a six-week festival of events and attractions so the public have a host of reasons to come to the city centre.”

Alongside the live shows in Red Square are the giant Birds of Lumos Kiwis.

'During the day this beautiful art installation looks amazing but at night it really comes to life with a dazzling light show.

'It's creating a nice buzz in the city centre. We want lots of people to come into the CBD, enjoy the festival and, while they are here, support our hard-working city centre businesses. Our shops, cafes, bars and restaurants need support in the busy lead up to Christmas.”

For the full festival programme, go to: www.downtowntauranga.co.nz