A local nativity scene played out on Christmas Eve (December 24), complete with sheep, a pony in place of a donkey, and a real life set of new parents.

The “walk through” nativity scene, which had a Covid-19 QR code for scanning, and mandatory masks for those attending, transformed the tiny St Ninians Presbyterian Church in Hāwea Flat last night.

The scene (a three-dimensional depiction of the Nativity of Jesus) opened with a ewe, two very active lambs and a miniature pony outside the church. 

Rocket the pony welcomes a visitor.

Inside was an assortment of soft-toy angels and shepherds, audio visuals telling the Christmas story, three “wise guys”, and a rather special Holy Family.

The couple were Pamela Muwanguzi (formerly Ward), who grew up in Hāwea Flat, and her Ugandan husband Joshua. Their baby daughter Lily appeared in the manger in the earlier session of the nativity scene.  

One of the lambs outside St Ninians.

St Ninians Minister Aaron Johnstone said Covid restrictions limited the Christmas Eve service to about 30 people.

“We thought there might be a better alternative,” he said, adding that someone came up with the “not necessarily new” idea for a walk through nativity scene.

Two “wise guys” and a camel.

The congregation pulled together the arrangements in about two or three weeks.

“In the end the experience has been really enjoyable. It was amazing to be outside with all the families,” he said.

A Covid QR code was a sign of the times.

Aaron estimated that more than 100 people had visited the walk through nativity scene.

PHOTOS: Wānaka App