The final touches of tinsel, twinkle lights and trimmings are being attached to floats ahead of Auckland's annual Christmas Parade.

The annual tradition kicks off at 1 pm on Federal Street and will travel through Queen Street and Customs Street East.

Parade General Manager Pam Glaser - who has been involved in the tradition for 26 years - said the time and effort that people put into bringing the parade to life is awe-inspiring.

"We have found 3,500 to 4,000 that actually participate in the parade. For example, a street marshal or a section leader or blowing balloons or make-up."

The parade will feature larger than life characters in balloon form, while a party will be held after the parade at Aotea Square.

Glaser said so much hard work goes on behind the scenes.

"We've had our helium inflatables arrive from the States with a specialist crew, so we'll be showing them the ropes. And we're just doing all the last minute touches to the floats and the costumes."

The Santa's Party will run until 5:30 pm.