Get out and vote … for your favourite fish!

8 October 2013

Get out and vote … for your favourite fish!

Rotorua District Council community arts officer, Marc Spijkerbosch, is encouraging locals to get outside and enjoy the warm spring weather - and while they’re at it check out the funky fish around the CBD from the council’s Fish Out of Water competition.

The popular annual fish decorating competition involves 13 one-metre long fibreglass fish which have been given an artistic treatment by local residents. The creations form a ‘fish trail’ through the inner city and people have the opportunity to vote for their favourite.

Mr Spijkerbosch says the fish have been really well received by local people and visitors alike since they went on display last week.

“I’ve had amazing feedback from the retailers where the fish have been placed. They say the fish have really made quite an impact on business. Some had been on the edge of their seats waiting for the fish trail to begin.

“Quite a few people have voted already and due to the popularity of this season’s competition, we’re going to extend the closing date for voting until 18 November.”

RDC Inner City Enterprises operations manager, Richard Horn, said foot traffic at the City Focus had been “amazing” over the past few days, with families taking the opportunity to follow the trail over the school holidays.

“It’s been great to see mums and dads, and grandparents as well, out with the kids. People are aware that the ‘Fish Trail’ is in the CBD and they’re having fun following it and placing their votes.”

The People’s Choice Award winner will receive a prize and a place in the ‘Fish Hall-of-Fame’ for permanent display within the city.

Fish and voting forms are located at Penney's Souvenirs, Sole Outlet, City Focus, Monkey Kids, McLeod's Booksellers, Me and Moo Moo, Visitor Information Centre & i-SITE, Arts Village, Art Expo Gallery, Library Cafe, Hamills, and Absokiwilutely.

ENDS

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