Newsletter August 2009

Ellerslie International Flower Show 2010 offers better visitor experience

A better visitor experience is the aim of all the changes being
implemented for the 2010 Ellerslie International Flower Show -
better traffic management, smaller queues, improved signage,
more food and beverage outlets and a greater number of
relaxation areas – to name just some of the changes visitors will
see in 2010.

The management team has spent the last five months addressing
the teething issues at this year’s inaugural Christchurch show and
plans are now in place to ensure next year’s Show will offer an
even better experience.

A new traffic management plan has been developed which
includes better signage in and around North Hagley Park and
areas of the city to direct traffic to the venue and there are plans
to provide easier access off Harper Avenue on to the site.

Visitors will be encouraged to park in the city and walk to the
Show, taking time to enjoy the city’s other attractions on the way,
or cycle or take the bus. This will help to further ease any traffic
congestion.

The number of food and beverage outlets throughout the venue
will increase by 60 per cent and there will be a significant increase
in the number of seat and relaxation areas for visitors to sit and
rest between visiting exhibits.

Plans are currently being finalised to use bigger marquees at next
year’s event. These will have multiple entrance and exit points,
helping to reduce queues.

There will be also better signage and management of queues,
and all floral and horticultural demonstrations will be removed
from the main marquees to help improve pedestrian flow past
exhibits. A dedicated demonstration area will be set-up, allowing
visitors to stop and enjoy these displays without the pressure to
move on.

The Show will also open longer next year, from 10am to 7pm
each day, except Sunday when it will close at 6pm. Specific Day tickets and Half Day tickets from 3pm have beenintroduced to better manage the number of visitors on any oneday. There are a limited number of Any Day tickets available. Tickets for the 2010 Show go on sale next week. Those
who purchase their tickets before 15 February 2010 will save 20 per cent on the full ticket price. The Early Bird Special is $28 for a Specific Day ticket or $32 for an Any Day ticket. These prices rise to $35 and $40 respectively,
after 15 February 2010. There are special senior and group rates as well.

The Christchurch residents special is back throughout September with tickets the same price as last year - $22 each, limit four. This special price is for Specific Day ticketsonly, residents having to nominate which day they will
attend when they buy. Any Day tickets are available ($32) but are not part of the residents’ special.
.
Regards
BOB PARKER
MAYOR OF CHRISTCHURCH