Keys of Arrowtown presented to two special locals

Media Release from the BMW New Zealand Open
Friday March 13 2015

Keys of Arrowtown presented to two special locals

While hundreds thronged the streets of Arrowtown to celebrate the official opening of the BMW New Zealand Open, it was a moment to remember for two local businessmen.

Golf course founders and visionaries Sir Michael Hill of The Hills and Mr Eiichi Ishii of Millbrook Resort were presented with the ‘Keys to Arrowtown’,

Surrounded by family members and cheered on by the crowd, the keys were presented to the pair, both visibly moved, by Jim Lapsley of the Arrowtown Promotion and Business Association.

They keys were firstly presented to Mr Ishii who said the recognition was an indication that he has been “doing something right.”

“My mother used to say that Millbrook should be a paradise on earth,” he said.

Sir Michael was just as thrilled to receive the keys.

“I love the keys, they’re beautiful,” he said.

“My vision for The Hills is that it remains as it is. Arrowtown is a wonderful, unique village; we need to keep that uniqueness because that’s what makes it so successful and so beautiful.”

BMW New Zealand Open tournament director Michael Glading said the accolades could not have gone to two more deserving people.

“Their commitment and dedication to the development of golf tourism in the region has been outstanding.

“We congratulate them both on receiving the keys to the town and look forward to working with them for years to come.”

The free welcome party showcased fun family entertainment for locals and visitors.

The keys, attached to greenstone citation tags, will be displayed at both golf courses during the four-day tournament.

For further information and tickets go to www.bmwnzopen.com.

ENDS

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