(PR.co.nz) Visitors to next year’s Ellerslie International Flower Show (EIFS) will be able to enjoy more gardens than have ever been on display before in Christchurch.
Exhibition Manager Kate Hillier says there will be a record 45 gardens at next year’s Show – the biggest turnout since the Show moved to Christchurch. At this year’s EIFS, there were 34 gardens while in 2009, the first year the Show was in Christchurch, there were 26 gardens.
Ms Hillier says the strong interest in exhibiting at Ellerslie reflects a growing recognition among designers and businesses that it is a must-attend event for those wanting to gain valuable national and international exposure.
“Since the Show came to Christchurch, people have seen that it attracts a large number of visitors, including from across New Zealand and the world, and this has made it very appealing,” she says.
“Of course, this huge amount of interest from exhibitors means visitors to the Show next year can look forward to some extremely innovative and creative gardens. There will certainly be plenty to see at the 2011 Show.”
The Emerging Designs – Student Designer of the Year category is the biggest growth area, with three times the number of students entering next year’s Show compared to this year.
At next year’s Ellerslie, students will be asked to design a small, low maintenance courtyard garden where a DINKY (Double Income, No Kids Yet) couple can relax after a long day at work with a glass of wine.
Ms Hillier says the Starlight Marquee, which is unique to Ellerslie, is likely to contain some of the most popular gardens among the public again next year. Multiple gold medal winner Ben Hoyle will exhibit his Pure Indulgence garden, which he describes as “the fusion of all things sweet and horticultural treats… a magical journey in a truly dreamlike world” in the Marquee next year. Fellow Wellington designer Andrew Frazer will exhibit alongside Ben.
Ellerslie International Flower Show is New Zealand’s premier week-long garden extravaganza in Christchurch’s North Hagley Park from 9 to 13 March 2011. The Show celebrates Christchurch’s Garden City heritage and the best of national and international garden design. Check out the website for further information www.ellerslieflowershow.co.nz.
Media Release 17 November 2010 from Christchurch City Council.