The Manager’s Message
By Lieutenant Commander Allen Mortimer, RNZN Naval Community Organisation Manager
The month has finally arrived, when we get to have lots of fun as a family at the RNZN Children’s Christmas Party at Ngataringa Sports ground between 1000 -1400 on Sunday 12 December 2010.
Last year was a great effort in numbers, weather and entertainment and this year we anticipate another lively and safe extravaganza where there will be something for everyone and perhaps new rides and experiences to enjoy. As always the way that Santa will arrive will be a well kept secret and everyone here at NCO is sworn to secrecy.
We have looked at the pick up points from last years Children’s Christmas Party and will be making some improvements this time. Safety is our first and foremost concern, especially for the children. Therefore Santa’s arrival will be controlled (as much as possible) and an area sectioned off and monitored so that children will not come to harm in the excitement of his arrival.
Registration will happen in good time, so that there are no long queues waiting and also so that the rides and entertainment are loaded and ready to go bang on 1000. At the end of the day the vendors will ensure that the queues are finished before winding down.
We will make sure that any identified health and safety concerns are limited. Last year there was a small issue with children riding as pillion passengers on motorbikes. If the opportunity for motorbike rides happens this year, we will make sure it is done safely in a controlled fashion. However, all are reminded that at this time of heightened joy and entertainment, parents do have the sole responsibility for their children or children they are taking care of.
We do want this to be a safe event.
Remember to bring lots of sun screen, your lunch, liquid refreshments, sun umbrellas and cash for the raffles, food and beverage vendors. We have to make sure we don’t ‘over sell’ this event as we want our navy children to have the greatest of days and this is why we have had to limit the sale of tickets to friends of children this year. Some rides will be more popular than others, so you may have to put up with the odd long queue; unfortunately we cannot operate like Disneyland with ‘fast passes’ for shorter queues.
We all look forward to seeing you at the RNZN Children’s Christmas party and you can be sure that our team will be working hard to ensure that everyone has a super day and an entertaining time. Bring on the sunny weather – as we don’t have a ‘rain day’ planned.
In January we will be taking a communication break, so from the team here at NCO we wish you a very happy Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.
Until next time from all of us – please take care.