International Flower Show Uproots
20 Nov 2007
The largest gardening event in the southern hemisphere is being uprooted and moving south.
The Ellerslie International Flower Show will be held in Christchurch as of next year and Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says the outcome is superb for the city.
"Christchurch is the Garden City. The Ellerslie International Flower Show is the very best in the country with international links. This prestigious event is such a good fit for our city and will boost Christchurch's Garden City image even further."
The flower show currently attracts 65,000 people over five days. It has been held in the Auckland region since its inception in 1994 and is worth more than $14 million a year to the local economy.
Mr Parker says that given the passion for gardening in the city, and the turn out at other major events, like the New Zealand Cup and Show Week he's confident Christchurch can attract similar numbers.
"Christchurch is an event city. Obviously we have been and will continue to look at opportunities to bring the very best festivals and events to our city. It is no secret that we bid for the World Netball Championships and also the International Paralympic Championships. That's the business we're in," Mr Parker said.
Ellerslie International Flower Show Spokesman David Mee says he's delighted the flower show has found a new home.
"We were quite overwhelmed by the interest and enthusiasm of those cities who wished to host the event, but in the end we decided Christchurch would be the best long term home for the show. The vision, passion and enthusiasm from the Christchurch City Council was compelling and we believe the Ellerslie International Flower Show is in safe hands in the 'Garden City'."
For more information
Contact: Bob Parker, Mayor of Christchurch 0274434575
Dave Mee, Ellerslie International Flower Show Ltd. 021310501
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