The Christmas spirit came alive in Rarotonga yesterday as volunteers at the Celebration Church wrapped gifts and filled hampers for distribution to families in Rarotonga and outer islands in the annual Christmas Box Cook Islands goodwill project.

Families  across the islands will receive a package of groceries and goodies for all ages gifted by local charities, businesses and donors.

Yesterday, 1000 Christmas Boxes were packed at the Celebration Church in Nikao.

Tina Iro, team leader and a Christmas Box organiser, said they would like to acknowledge Prime Foods and their amazing staff for devanning and delivering the groceries to the church.

A big meitaki maata also goes out to the Celebration members for their big effort in preparing the boxes and groceries ready for packing day.

The Christmas Box project in the Cook Islands was first launched in 2012 when 500 boxes were delivered.

Now an annual community venture, it is supported by local banks, businesses, hotels  and individuals. -