Hunt still on to find a missing Santa

The hunt for a super-sized Santa missing from atop a Thai restaurant in Whangarei is still continuing.

Nearly a week after the mannequin went missing from the Sabai Thai restaurant on Bank St, Carl Sayer, whose wife Ood Sayer owns the business, is confident the Santa will be found.

"Someone will know where he is. He was supposed to come down [Monday] but it looks like he's already gone," Ms Sayer said.

Santa was put up on November 22 and found missing on Thursday morning by Mrs Sayer when she arrived for work.

"It's a shame because you try and do something for the town to brighten the mood and this happens," he said.

"It's got to be found, unless someone dumps it over a cliff or a bank. It's like hiding a person."

Mr Sayer said the Santa's suit was bought from Auckland and other garment and boots sourced from local businesses.

Despite the setback, he's keen on putting up a similar display up the restaurant for next Christmas.