Settlement City and Port Central will host visits for children and pets to see Santa and his helpers, with some additional social-distancing changes.

Settlement City centre manager Brett Varcoe said photos are organised by online bookings.

"It's been a strange year and we know people are really looking forward to Christmas. We're excited to be bringing back all the magic and joy of the season and spending time with Santa and the elves, but in a COVID-safe way," Mr Varcoe said.

"We're expecting to see customers adapt their shopping behaviours this Christmas and we're encouraging people to start their shopping early and plan their visit to the centre. This way, we can ensure everyone has a joyous and safe Christmas."

Port Central photos can be booked online and the centre is also offering Santa Paws photos for pets.

Christmas shopping tips this year include having a shopping list ready and planning your trip ahead, making the most of extended opening hours and shopping outside of peak periods, being extra patient with retail staff and fellow customers this year, phoning ahead to check item availability and pre-ordering items for delivery where available.

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