MEDIA RELEASE                          17 February  2009

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Ellerslie ticket sales top 41,000

Three weeks out from the opening of the first Christchurch-hosted Ellerslie International Flower Show ticket sales have topped 41,000 and on track to equal visitor numbers of previous shows.

Early bird ticket sales ended on Sunday with thousands of tickets being pre-sold nationwide during the week, says Ellerslie Managing Director Dave Mee.

“The number of pre-sold tickets is phenomenal. This is great for the Show; however, it does mean we will need to look at limiting some ticket sales to ensure those who have pre-purchased tickets are able to enjoy the experience.

“It is important that everyone who comes to Ellerslie leaves feeling it has been the best experience and that they will be back in 2010.”

Mr Mee says from today they will be restricting ticket sales for the first day of the show, Wednesday 11 March. “Traditionally, this is the busiest day of the show with visitors keen to be first to view the gardens.

“When it was based in Auckland, Ellerslie visitor numbers topped 65,000, the show being an enjoyable experience because visitors planned their visit and allowed time to wander through the exhibits and relax over coffee and lunch.

“Visitors need to remember Ellerslie runs over five days and it is really a full day’s entertainment if you are to enjoy all the show has to offer.”

Mr Mee says as gate sales during the show will be limited due to the high demand, it is best to pre-purchase tickets now.  “There will be careful monitoring of attendance on the traditionally busy days of Wednesday and Saturday.”

Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker says the number of pre-sold tickets for Ellerslie was outstanding and reinforces the long held love affair that Christchurch residents have with their gardens.

“It is so fantastic to see such a high level of excitement in Christchurch, throughout New Zealand and internationally about Ellerslie, before the show has even opened.

“In just 15 months everyone has embraced Ellerslie and in three weeks Christchurch looks forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to the Garden City for New Zealand’s most prestigious garden event.”

He says Ellerslie is about innovation, inspiration and will play a key role in Christchurch not reclaiming but also enhancing Christchurch’s reputation as the Garden City.

“Visitors to Ellerslie next month can be guaranteed of enjoying a world-class event.”

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