Celebrating Christmas: A parade of colour

05 Dec 2024

If you attended the Farmers Santa Parade in Auckland last weekend, then you’ll know how lively and entertaining it is! This yearly parade owes much of its festive magic to Peter Taylor, who has spent over 50 years crafting the parade’s iconic floats.  

Peter’s expertise, developed during his time in the Farmers’ Display Department, has been instrumental in creating vibrant and durable floats that withstand weather and time. Key to their longevity and visual impact is the use of Resene paints, which Peter has relied on for decades.  

From the durable Resene Lumbersider Low Sheen that protects against the elements to bold shades like Resene Turbo, Resene Resolution Blue, Resene Guardsman Red and shimmering Resene FX Metallic Bronze, the paints bring each float to life with vivid, eye-catching colours. These bright and varied hues are essential for ensuring the floats are visually striking as they pass by parade-goers. 

Peter Taylor’s fantastic floats march down Auckland’s Queen Street during the annual Farmers Santa Parade. ReseneLumbersider Low Sheen is Peter’s paint product of choice for its durability, brilliance and breadth of colour options. Images by Auckland Farmers Santa Parade. 

Throughout his career, Peter has transitioned from fragile papier-mâché constructions to more robust materials like plywood, polystyrene and fiberglass, always enhanced by Resene products. Memorable floats like a giant dinosaur, transformed over the years with different Resene shades, showcase the paints' adaptability and vibrancy.  

The parade, held annually in late November, is a spectacular celebration where Peter’s creations – coloured and preserved with Resene – take centre stage, spreading joy to thousands.  

To see the magic for yourself, visit the Farmers Santa Parade photo gallery online. 

Published: 05 Dec 2024