Santaline a hit in Bay

Santa's phone has been ringing off the hook in the run up to this Christmas with kids calling the free Telecom Santaline.

Already, 11,427 people have called Santa from the Bay of Plenty - adding to more than 250,000 calls from all over New Zealand.

Anyone can call Santa for free on 0800 222 222 from any New Zealand landline, mobile or pay phone right up until Christmas Day.

Those who would prefer to let Santa know their wishes online can do so here.