FESTA finalist in national event awards

FESTA finalist in national event awards

Christchurch’s Festival of Transitional Architecture (FESTA) has been recognised as one of New Zealand’s best new events at the event industry’s national awards.

FESTA, which rose from the rubble of earthquake-stricken Christchurch in 2012 to engage the public with the city’s urban regeneration, has been shortlisted for Best Emerging Event at the 2014 New Zealand Association of Event Professionals (NZAEP) Awards.

Being selected as a finalist is a significant acknowledgement of the work FESTA has done to reconnect local people with their city in an imaginative and enjoyable way.

FESTA director Jessica Halliday says the nomination is a great boost. “It’s amazing to have this recognition of all the creative people and organisations we’ve had the privilege of working with since 2012. It’s especially welcome right now, as we’re deep in preparation for our third Festival, which will be held on 24-27 October this year.”

Over the past two years FESTA has brought an estimated 50,000 people into positive engagement with the central city through talks, workshops, experimental projects and a singular night event of epic proportions.

As part of the four-day Labour Weekend event, FESTA partners with major schools of architecture and design from New Zealand and abroad. The collaboration between architecture studios, local businesses, artists, performers and creative thinkers culminates in a spectacular takeover of the central city, filling it with light and sound, speculative thinking and architecture, energy and life.

Over the past two years FESTA has worked with more than 500 architecture students, 22 arts organisations, eight community organisations, 22 businesses and 59 private sponsors. FESTA also gratefully acknowledges funding and support from local and national government agencies as well as support from over 500 amazing dedicated volunteers.

FESTA is proud to be shortlisted alongside two other local finalists in the Emerging Event Professional Category, Kelly Barry and Alicia Gainsford, indicating the potential for an eventful city in the face of the challenges involved in Christchurch’s recovery.

ENDS

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