Ellerslie expands into the edible and fashionable

20 February, 2013

Ellerslie expands into the edible and fashionable

Foodies and fashionistas are in for a treat at this year’s Ellerslie International Flower Show, with the gardening extravaganza expanding to attract visitors with varying interests.

An exciting new concept – Edible Ellerslie – has been developed for food lovers and incorporates a boutique tasting village, celebrity chef masterclasses and the chance to try some of the delectable food created.

Managing Director Dave Mee is excited about the big names of the food world that will be attending. Confirmed chefs include Canterbury’s own Jonny Schwass, Bevan Smith from Riverston Kitchen, Paul Jobin, who oversees the premium restaurant portfolio at SkyCity Auckland, Richard Hingston, who heads the Kitchens at the Christchurch Casino and Adam Newell, Michelin star chef and owner of Wellington’s Zibibbo.

“Foodies will be able to book in and experience the meals that are cooked onstage when a gardener and chef work together. There are only about 80 spots available for each interactive demonstration”.

“This is an amazing opportunity for visitors to the show to experience new and fresh recipes that are served in top restaurants around the country. Foodies can by tickets now on our website or possibly at the show, if they are in quick,” Dave says.

The daily schedule for Edible Ellerslie includes a celebrity chef cooking demonstration at 11am, a celebrity chef masterclass three-course lunch at 12.30pm, a pastry chef high tea at 3.30pm and cocktails and canapés with a specialist mixologist at 5.30pm. Dining will be matched to Yealands wine and each guest will receive a goodie bag.

Meanwhile, the fashion element of Ellerslie – which was introduced in 2012 – has grown due to popular demand, with four fashion shows planned each day in the Christchurch Casino Fashion Village. A best-dressed competition will be held for the first time, on Saturday 9 March.

Fashion organiser Angela Stone is sure visitors will put their favourite flora and fauna inspired outfits on, making the 2013 Ellerslie show the most fashionable ever held.

“People can just enter the best dressed competition on the day. Other interesting events will be fashion shows highlighting new designs by students, retails shows by EziBuy and Look online and myself exhibiting.”

Students of the Design & Arts College of New Zealand have been given the unusual task of incorporating new lightweight water bottles into their garment designs along with other sustainable materials, to be featured in the KIWI BLUE Eco-twist Sustainable Fashion Show.

“The fusion of fashion and floral will allow our local designers to display their stunning collections in the most exquisite of settings,” Angela says.

Canterbury Runway will again be held at Ellerslie on Friday 8 March, providing a chance for spectators to see what’s hot for Autumn.

Exhibition Manager Kate Hillier says the development of the food and fashion elements, in conjunction with the world-class garden exhibits planned for 2013, mean visitors will be entertained for hours.

“People need to plan to be at the show for several hours, as there is so much for them to see and do. Ellerslie is simply a great day out.”

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