Media release 22 April 2004

Ellerslie Garden Show Must Continue

Manukau mayor Sir Barry Curtis says he is determined that the Ellerslie Garden Show, which takes place in Manukau City, will go ahead this year.

Sir Barry is this week having discussions with a number of parties interested in taking over the reins of the premier horticultural show and an outcome is expected soon.

As well as being a superb event for garden lovers the show brings $12 million into the Manukau economy each year, and receives financial and other support from Manukau City Council, which recently agreed to put $100,000 towards this year's show.

Sir Barry says, "Nothing's finalised at this stage but I have every confidence the Garden Show will continue as a highlight of the horticultural year each November.

"However as it is actually held at the Regional Botanic Gardens in Manukau, I would like to have it re-named to reflect the actual location - to the Manukau Garden Show. That would only be appropriate because it has not been held in Ellerslie for some years."

ENDS

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