Santa Claus will literally be in two places at once next week, offering children the chance to share their Christmas wishlists.

Opportunities for that precious Christmas photo with Santa will be at Oamaru’s Lagonda Tearooms from Saturday (December 17), and Harbour Street Collective Cafe from Monday (December 19). 

Santa will have his sleigh parked up (in both places) until he needs to step up for his other job on Christmas Eve.

Hayley Casey, of Hayley Casey Photography, said this was her 13th year taking Santa Photos, although this year she might have to call in some little helpers, with the delivery of a Christmas baby a very real possibility for her.

“I have arranged a fabulous helper to be my backup photographer if I do end up having my baby beforehand, and she has been involved with our Santa photos for about six years now,” Hayley said.

As many parents know, while all children seem to love the idea of Santa bringing them a haul of presents, seeing the man in the flesh can be terrifying for them.

Hayley has ways to work around this, and still produce a frame-worthy photograph for the grandparents.

“Obviously, not all of the kids are interested in having a chat with Santa, a lot of them are more interested in getting as far away as possible!

“We designed our sleigh so that Santa can go and have a 'cup of tea' and leave it unattended. So the kids that are scared of him can take a seat on the sleigh and Santa can sneak in and stand behind. So we can still get a beautiful photo without having a terrified child,” she said. 

“I have a feeling that may be the technique we need to use for my own son this year!”

Hayley “adores” seeing the children interacting with Santa, and Santa himself “genuinely loves making the kids happy”, she said.

“It's so sweet to hear their conversations and see the kids warm up to him.” 

For parents wanting to have the best experience for their children, and get the best photos for the money, Hayley suggests having a chat with them beforehand.

“I'd say prep your kids . . . tell them what is going to happen and if you think that they might be a little scared, mention it to the team and we can have Santa leave before it's your turn. 

“Oh and make sure you clean their faces right before their turn!” 

Santa Claus will be at the Lagonda Tearooms for you to take your own photos for a $5 donation, from December 17, 11am-3pm; and at Harbour Street Collective Cafe with Hayley Casey Photography starting on December 19, 10am-12noon, and 1-4pm.