MEDIA RELEASE
April 24 2007

Sofitel Presents Auckland Art Fair's Opening Event

Aucklanders should mark May 17 on their calendars – the opening night of the Auckland Art Fair, which will showcase some of New Zealand's finest contemporary art.

The opening gala party is named Vernissage, a French word that refers to the final flourishes made to a painting before public viewing, and will be presented by sponsor Sofitel, hotel chain Accor's luxury brand (in association with major sponsor Hesketh Henry). The event will be the first opportunity guests will have to purchase work from the fair. Complimentary wine and "amuse bouche" will also be served throughout the evening.

The Auckland Art Fair is held in conjunction with professional galleries from around New Zealand and Australia, presenting works by their leading artists. The inaugural event took place in September 2005 in the Britomart Events Pavilion, and this year will be held in a fantastic new venue in Viaduct Harbour. Sofitel supported the event from its inception and there was no question as to its continuing involvement.

The objective of this "Bienniale" event is to secure Auckland a place on an International Art Fair circuit which includes Melbourne, Basel, Miami and London and it is expected to produce significant long-term economic benefits for artists, galleries and Auckland City.

The event also aims to provide the opportunity for existing and aspiring art collectors and aficionados to meet and discuss their art interests with the people who have an extensive knowledge of and dedication to their profession.
Thomas van Vliet, Vice President Sofitel Asia Pacific, says Sofitel has always been a great supporter of the arts.

"We saw this as a perfect opportunity to become involved in a prestigious event that supports New Zealand and Australian artists. Events such as this are particularly important to support local artists, but also to position New Zealand as an important player on the international art scene"

Vernissage runs from 7pm until late, Thursday 17 May. Tickets are available from Ticketek; www.ticketek.co.nz or phone 09 307 5000.

Accor is the worldwide leader in hotels, tourism and corporate services, employing 170,000 people in 100 countries. . It offers to its individual and corporate clients nearly 40 years of expertise in its two core businesses:

- Hotels: over 4,000 hotels (475,000 rooms) in 90 countries (including 150 hotels and resorts in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific under the brands Sofitel, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, All Seasons, Ibis and Formule 1) as well as backpacker hostels, travel agencies, restaurants and casinos;

- Services to corporate clients and public institutions: 21 million people in 35 countries benefit from Accor Services' products – employee assistance programs, people care and services, incentive, loyalty programs, events, food vouchers.

ENDS

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