Smith & Caughey's prepares for final Christmas season with festive displays in Auckland

Smith & Caughey's department store in Auckland is preparing for what may be its final Christmas season. After nearly 140 years, the store announced it would close, but a scaled-down version will continue, focusing on the ground floor and online sales. Kevin Broadfoot, who has created the store's Christmas displays for 18 years, reflects on the evolution of the displays from simple decorations to a high-tech wonderland. This year's theme is inspired by the children's classic "The Adventures of Hutu and Kawa." The Christmas display opens to the public on November 1, featuring animated windows and Santa's enchanted forest. Broadfoot's personal collection enhances the experience, creating lasting memories for families visiting the store.