AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

13 March 2007

Step back in time

Auckland’s unique natural, built and social heritage will be celebrated again this year from 15 to 30 September with the Auckland Heritage Festival.

The event builds on the success of the past three years and has been extended over three weekends to increase its accessibility to the public and coincide with the school holidays.

Local Auckland city groups and organisations are invited to submit their events for inclusion in the 2007 programme.

A preference will be given to those events that fit with the objectives of the festival by:

- being available free or at minimal cost

- incorporating an aspect of learning or awareness of the heritage of Auckland city

- incorporating formally recognised heritage (such as scheduled or protected buildings or landscape features)

- having a primary purpose that is not to promote the contributor’s business or for their financial gain.

A range of events were included in last year’s programme, from guided heritage walks, open days and tours of historic Auckland sites to vintage fashion displays, rugby games and heritage market days.

The Auckland Heritage Festival is part of Auckland City Council’s long-term campaign to protect heritage areas and buildings, and to enhance the sense of place and identity which is unique to Auckland. It provides an opportunity to celebrate our city’s distinct heritage and to bring alive times and places of yesteryear.

Chair of the Environment, Heritage and Urban Form Committee, Councillor Christine Caughey, says the festival is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the rich history of Auckland’s past and further enhance our sense of identity as Aucklanders.

“We encourage organisations and individuals with an interest in the city’s heritage to apply for inclusion in the 2007 Auckland Heritage Festival programme. The festival is a fantastic opportunity to share the stories of our local areas with the wider public and remember days gone by,” says Ms Caughey.

Those interested in applying to be part of the programme can download the application form and criteria from www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/heritage, or call 09 379 2020 to request a copy. Applications close 31 May 2007.

ENDS

© Scoop Media