Newsletter October 2008

Unprecedented build up to Ellerslie

With more than 17,000 tickets now sold for Christchurch’s first Ellerslie International Flower Show, there is a real sense of excitement beginning to grow – not only in Christchurch – but throughout the country as the countdown begins for the Show. The organisers say this level of interest is unprecedented at this stage of the build-up to Ellerslie.

Filming started in the Garden City last week for the 13-week television series, The Road to Ellerslie – in the Garden City. As one of the presenters and with a background in television, it is exciting to watch this television series come together, with a mix of content to entertain, educate and inform. Keep tuned for the launch of the show on TV1 on Saturday 27 December at 9.30am.

Last week also saw the designers for Ellerslie’s international feature garden fly into the city to scope out the site, talk with the project team and source plants for their exhibit. Details of this award-winning garden are expected to be finalised in the next few weeks and an announcement made towards the end of November. Having viewed some preliminary designs and images of the garden, this will be a fantastic addition to the feature gardens which will be on display.

There are now 18 confirmed exhibition gardens for the Show – and interest continues to grow!  It is good to see a strong representation from a diverse range of South Island garden designers, and also good interest from North Island designers who are looking to continue their long association with Ellerslie. Having viewed some of the design briefs – and sketches – visitors to Ellerslie are in for a real treat in March 2009.

Regards
BOB PARKER
MAYOR OF CHRISTCHURCH