The Far North District is a hot-spot for Kiwis looking to get away over the holidays.

However, due to the impacts of cyclones, storms and COVID - the area's businesses are still struggling.

Far North District Mayor Moko Tepania told Andrew Dickens that tourism this summer is key to boosting Northland's struggling businesses.

'We need you all to come up here and spend your money because our businesses bloody need it.'

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Wellington City Mission is expecting to welcome hundreds of people for Christmas lunches across the city tomorrow.

Five different locations will offer food and quality time for those living within City Mission housing, and those who use its services.

Missioner Murray Edridge told Andrew Dickens that it's been the hardest year many have experienced, but tomorrow's a time to come together.

He says Christmas can be difficult because it reminds those struggling of what they don't have.

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Santa Claus says he's fully wrapped up his Christmas preparations - ahead of tonight's global gift run.

New Zealand is one of his first stops on his longest night of the year.

Santa rolled out a dad joke - as he described what kids have been asking him for this year.

He says remote control vehicles are a big thing - but he's not sure how remote children want to be from the vehicle.

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