Rudolph the red-nose reindeer is leading Santa’s sleigh at Southland Hospital this Christmas.  

The festive splender, installed on November 24, is thanks to a gift from the Smith family and follows the recently closure of their iconic H&J Smith Ltd department store. 

The gift also includes six 2m Christmas trees from the store, with more Christmas memorabilia to go into the Childrens Ward.  

Dubbed “Operation Rudolph” a hospital committee comprising of engineers, building and maintenance, clinical staff and nurse leaders have worked with the department store staff to ensure the gifted items are displayed in a way that all of Southland can enjoy them.  

H&J Smith Ltd chief executive John Green is delighted that the spirit of Christmas synonymous with the store will continue.  

“I can think of no better place for the sleigh and reindeer to be rehomed than the hospital with the prospect of bringing Christmas in the most visual way to families from across Southland.”  

Hospital General Manager Simon Donlevy said the hospital was appreciate of the generosity that has been shown.

Operation Rudolph committee member and hospital director of nursing Linda Ryan said receiving the store’s iconic sleigh and reindeers was special, especially knowing it would bring cheer to everyone to see it once more and for years to come.  

Nurse manager Lucy Prinsloo says being in a hospital at Christmas is no one’s idea of fun, but the memorabilia will bring joy and cheer.