Flowers for Christchurch on Valentines Day

Garden designers are allowed on site at North Hagley Park from today to start building their gardens for the Ellerslie International Flower Show.

With just over three weeks to go, designers with larger, more complex gardens or those who are attending for the first time will be arriving early to set up before the gates open on Wednesday 9 March.

Exhibition Manager Kate Hillier says the Starlight Marquee, which is unique to Ellerslie, is likely to contain some of the most popular gardens again this year.

“Some of the gardens there will be a real treat for the senses. Not only will they be attractive visually, but several of them will have touch and smell elements that will take people on a journey and encourage their imaginations to run free.”

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”. 

Ms Hillier says the Surf’s Scent-ual Garden, inspired by striking scents such as lime, mint, lavender and lemons will be another garden not to be missed.

“Designed by Xanthe White, this visually appealing garden will take you through a fragrant wonderland.”

There will be a record 40 gardens at this year’s Show – the biggest turnout since the Show moved to Christchurch.

Around 65,000 people are expected over the five days from Wednesday 9 to Sunday 13 March. Last year the Show attracted 57,000 visitors.

Managing Director Dave Mee says so far ticket sales are up on last year.

“It would be great to have the weather on our side too – but either way we’re looking forward to seeing the families and avid gardens alike come to enjoy a fantastic day out.”

Today is also the last day for early bird tickets with adult Any Day tickets $29 each and children’s Any Day tickets $4 each.

From tomorrow (Tuesday 15 February) Any Day adult tickets will be $40 each and children’s Any Day tickets $5 each.

Tickets can be purchased at Ticketek.co.nz and are also available from Christchurch City Council, Ballantynes and the i-site from this Wednesday 16 February.

See link to Ellerslie images for download:http://www.flickr.com/photos/ellerslieinternationalflowershow/with/4423809312/

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