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Hundreds of Cantabrians came across a large plate of Christmas kai at the City Mission’s annual luncheon, and some were lucky enough to be served by the city’s mayor.
Lianne Dalziel was among 350 volunteers who gave up their Christmas day to spread the pasta that included 400 kg of bone-in ham, 2,000 sausages and 100 pavlovas.
It was planned for over 1000 people, but city missionary Matthew Mark attended about 800, about the same as last year.
He wondered if the numbers were lower than expected due to the growing demand for food packages earlier in the week.
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Mark said that Christmas lunch was to enjoy a family day together. “They know we are their family,” he said.
CHRIS SKELTON / Things
George Stewart enjoying his lunch.
In addition to lunch and dessert, those who came to the Linwood Rugby Club were invited to listen to live music and gifts from Santa.
George Stewart, a now 80-year-old animator, was very impressed. “I had been invited to a friend’s house, but I thought I would like to hear some music,” he said.
CHRIS SKELTON / Things
The Dyer family with takeout and their gifts.
“I know a lot of people here and it’s lovely to meet [and see] they.”
Mary-Anne Dyer, a hospitality worker, said she moved to Christchurch six months ago and had no family in Christchurch.
CHRIS SKELTON / Things
Santa came over and handed out presents at lunch.
“Coming to something that I know that I don’t have to worry about cooking and slaving for my little lot is good,” she said.
Dyer described Christmas as a stressful time, gesturing to his four children, all under the age of eight.
Dalziel, who helped serve the food, said some residents were eager to get their lunch from the mayor.
CHRIS SKELTON / Things
Sophie Dyer, 6, and Isabel Dyer, 3 at Christmas lunch.
“There was definitely a feeling about that on some of the tables, so it was really good. I have received many hugs and the people have been very kind, ”he said.
She said the volunteers were fantastic and that they had made a difference in the community by helping with lunch.
“That’s what the Christmas spirit is all about.”
