CHRISTCHURCH IN BLOOM
Spring. It’s our thing here in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
It’s ‘nor-west winds and blossom snowstorms, longer days and spectacular sunsets; it’s daffodils down Bealey Ave and gardens awash with colour. It’s also when the city comes alive with festivals, live music, horse racing, cultural performances, art, and fashion. We call this BLOOM – a spring celebration of events, making Ōtautahi the place to be this season. As we head down the home straight towards summer, things only get bigger in November as we finish the BLOOM season with a flourish.
ChristchurchNZ General Manager of Destination and Attraction Loren Heaphy says ensuring a vibrant city and strong visitor economy is a vital part of the city’s response to the social and economic impacts of Covid-19 – and BLOOM contributes to this.
“The central city was severely impacted by the Covid Level Two due to a reliance on visitors and discretionary spending by office workers. BLOOM not only drives attendance to key events but encourages residents and visitors to explore the city’s retail, hospitality, and culture offerings.
“So far we’ve seen a great response to BLOOM, and the impressive November schedule is the jewel in the BLOOM crown – we’re encouraging residents to invite their friends and family to come and enjoy the fantastic event line up here in Ōtautahi Christchurch,” said Heaphy.
BLOOM is just the beginning. Following hot on the heels of BLOOM is the Summertimes programme including Bread & Circus Backyard Buskers festival, live concerts, wine and food festivals, and international sporting events.
You can grab a coffee and wander the Scape Public Art Walkway and experience fourteen legacy and a number of new public artworks by local artists. Cast your vote for ChristchurchNZ’s People’s Choice Award using the QR codes on each installation.
It’s not November in Ōtautahi without the races. Enjoy the New Zealand Cup Meeting at Riccarton Park Racecourse with excitement, glamour, and outstanding racing across three days.
The atmosphere, excitement, and spring vibes at the IRT NZ Trotting Cup Day are unbeatable! Don’t miss the Sweet Mix Kids on the BLOOM stage. Follow up with the Show Day Races on Canterbury Anniversary Day.
And with Show Day missing from the November calendar for our city, why not take a trip to Hazlett’s City Farmyard? Who can resist lambs, calves, bunnies, ducklings, and chickens? Come and meet the animals and enjoy a day in the central city – bookings are essential.
With August spending in the central city down four per cent, compared to the same month last year and tourism-related industries showing an even bigger decrease, it’s more important than ever to support our local events and businesses.