It is the biggest and the best flower show in the country, but the Ellerslie garden extravaganza may be moving south.
For the past nine years the popular event has been held at Auckland's Botanical Gardens in Manurewa, but next year that may change.
A license renewal has opened up the ground for other cities to claim their stake to host the show.
Christchurch, Hamilton and the show's original home at Ellerslie are also vying for the title.
Hamilton City Council has confirmed the city is in the running. Mayor Bob Simcock says the city has proved itself in the past as an alternative venue to Auckland.
He says the city has a gardening reputation with Hamilton Gardens possibly the best in the country.
However, the Garden City - Christchurch 0 thinks it has got the best credentials for the job.
"We love our trees and we've got Hagley Park...we're the only city with a magnificent park and botanical garden right in the heart, we've got to be in there. This is a good fit for us," says Christchurch City mayor Bob Parker.
Ellerslie Flower Show Managing director David Mee says they are very happy with the current venue at Auckland's Botanic Gardens but it's time to take a good look at other options. He says that includes the possibility of moving the timing.
The successful city can expect to reap $14 million worth of business, but it'll have to be a location that has international appeal.
"We're looking to make sure that this show develops on the world map, now already most people who wander around Chelsea Flower Show will know of Ellerslie" says Mee.
Mee is denying any suggestion that the move is a way of turning the screws on Manukau City Council. He says they are very happy with the council's financial contribution which amounts to a six figure sum.
What ever happens, that name won't change, no matter which city wins.
"Our research is that 95% of Kiwis know the name, know the brand, they associate excellence with the brand" says Mee.
The groundwork's now laid, a decision is expected in a few weeks.
|
Select a Florist
