Children from St Joseph's Preschool and Long Daycare said they were going to ask the man in the red suit for a couple of items with bikes and surfboards high on the agenda.

Five-year-olds Charli Atkins and Jack McGrath were keen on being active and getting outside on December 25.

"My dad's already got a surfboard, but it's too big for me," Jack said.

"I want a bike under the tree," Charli said.

Four-year-old Tayla Fancett was a bit shy and unsure what she wanted, but she certainly knew how many sleeps were left.

Five-year-old, Maddison Hazelwood said she wanted something a little more bizarre.

"I'd like a pretend cat and pony and makeup," she said.

And after more than 150,000 letters were sent to the North Pole last year, Australia Post executive general manager of postal services, Christine Corbett, said Santa had heard of many well-behaved young children on the Mid-North Coast and was looking forward to his annual trip.

"I'm encouraging all children to make sure they write their letters and wish lists as soon as possible so that Santa has plenty of time before Christmas to read and respond to them," she said.

To ensure the man in red reads and replies to your note before Christmas, simply drop your lists in the post addressed to Santa, North Pole, 9999.

Children are told to ensure they include their full name and address, along with a stamped envelope so Santa knows where to send his reply.

Santa Mail letters can be placed in any Australia Post red post boxes or in-store at selected post offices.

And what were the youngsters leaving out for Rudolph, his mates and Santa?

Carrots and water.

"Oats and sprinkles too which glow so it helps them find their food in the dark," Maddison said.

"We will also make a salad for them."

paul.jobber@fairfaxmedia.com.au