Greymouth Christmas Parade

It’s raining it’s pouring the old man is snoring…….. rain, rain go away, come again another day……. I’m pretty sure that’s what was going through the heads of a lot of people today.

Today was the annual Greymouth Christmas Parade and Carnival. Starting at 10am with arts and craft stalls, bouncy castle and other fun activities for the kids and then followed at 1pm by the street parade which is well supported by the local schools and pre-schools and the numerous trucking companies of the Grey District.

Yep – that is huge raindrops you see in these photos. Unfortunately the weather forecast wasn’t looking that flash which was a real shame after a brilliant November and a good start to the month of December. The day started ok – but it was very overcast with threatening skies. We all had our fingers, toes and anything else possible crossed for the rain to hold out long enough for the parade.

The main streets of Greymouth were closed off for the event in preparation for the parade which meant it was easy to wander amongst the arts and crafts and other displays. The Big Boys Toys group were in force proudly showcasing some of their fantastic old vehicles. There is to be a proper display come January and after this small sampling I can’t wait!

1pm came and I guess we can’t have crossed enough things as the heavens opened – right on cue for the start of the parade. The participants weren’t perturbed though – there were still plenty of smiles and the kids were having a great time.

There were some fantastic floats – all the fire engines, ambulances and police cars, and big trucks being used to transport the parade participants. Some of the cabs were overflowing with people trying to stay out of the rain but for the most part everyone continued on – there were people handing out lollies and spot prizes and generally smiles all round. It was a fantastic event supported by a great bunch of entrants and spectators alike.

Well done to all the organisers. Now we’re back to crossing those fingers for fine weather for next week’s Xmas in the Park.

Jan and Stephen run Breakers Boutique Accommodation on the Great Coast Road north of Greymouth. Rated #1 on Tripadvisor, they enjoy getting out and about and sharing their adventures.