People heading into Auckland for the city's Santa Parade are being encouraged to arrive early.

The event attracts around a quarter of a million people every year, and today's gets underway at 2pm.

Road closures apply from midday until 5pm and people are advised to be in the city - or out - before midday.

Organiser Pam Glaser says the party starts at 11am in Aotea Square.

"Rides for kids and food, and then after the party you can come back to Santa's party as well.

"There's a sort-of stage show and Santa does an appearance as well."