But, this year he is taking it one step further and bringing a piece of his North Pole home to Maitland.

Dressed up like a present in the shared zone of The Levee, Santa’s living room features a fireplace, and a view of the reindeer grazing outside.

Santa will be home from 3pm to 7pm on Thursdays; and from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Children are invited to have their photo taken with Santa, and tell him what presents they would like this year.

Christmas has come early for their parents too, who will be pleased know there is no cost for Santa photos.

Due to his huge Christmas Eve workload, Saturday, December 23, will be Santa’s last day at The Levee.

There will also be Christmas-themed activities in a fixed marquee; and musicians entertaining on Thursdays and Sundays.

Council’s Martin Payne said the Santa photos had been successful in previous years.