AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) -- Tens of thousands of people lined in Auckland CBD to celebrate New Zealand's largest Santa Parade on Sunday despite rainy weather and fears around COVID-19.

The Farmers Santa Parade in Auckland, which began 86 years ago in 1934, has become an annual tradition today for families and children across New Zealand to celebrate Christmas and enjoy the summer season.

Although weather forecast showers during the parade, many people came to the parade, prepared with umbrellas and raincoats. Smiles and cheers were all along the diverse array of cartoon floats and festooned vehicles.

Among the parade troupes was a group of Chinese performers from the Federation of New Zealand Cheongsam Association, showcasing the traditional Chinese Cheongsam or Qipao costumes, and traditional Chinese music instruments.

Wendy Wang, president of the federation, was proud to be part of the parade to showcase traditional Chinese art and costumes. It was her sixth time at the Santa parade since the founding of the association.

"Every year we present the traditional Chinese art and costume with different themes. This year, our theme was the Centennial Qipao featuring the majestic dragon and lucky phoenix. Performers showcased traditional Chinese costumes from the Ming and Qing dynasties to modern designer Qipao styles, as well as traditional Chinese music instruments. It turned out to be very popular with spectators at this year's parade," said Wang.

Auckland Santa parade was one of the few Christmas parades happening internationally this year. New Zealand is currently at COVID-19 Alert Level one with no restrictions of public gatherings.

Face masks were not required at the event. However, organisers have COVID-19 contact tracing QR code attached to lamp posts throughout the 1.6 kilometres' parade route. Enditem