News release
October 19, 2007

Ready-Set-Go . . . to Cup Day in Christchurch

Christchurch's new mayor and tourism leaders are hoping a special $9 airfare to Christchurch will see record numbers of Wellingtonians and Aucklanders enjoying New Zealand Cup Day festivities in the Garden City.

To celebrate the earlier than forecast launch of its domestic airline service Pacific Blue is offering $9 "Ready-Set-Go' fares for travel between Auckland-Wellington, Auckland-Christchurch, and Wellington-Christchurch from November 12 to 13.

That's perfect timing for people keen to kick up their heels and join the festivities at Addington Raceway on one of the biggest days on the harness racing and fashion calendar - New Zealand Cup Day on Tuesday, November 13.

"These Ready-Set-Go fares mean that people could fly to Christchurch for the Cup and the associated festivities and home again for just $18. That presents an amazing opportunity for people to experience a really special time in Canterbury,'' says Christchurch & Canterbury chief executive Christine Prince.

"Spring is one of the best times of the year to visit, when the Garden City is in full bloom, and these fares make it so affordable for people to come here and enjoy the party atmosphere that surrounds Cup Day and to soak up the sights, sounds and tastes of the city.â€

Christchurch's newly-elected mayor Bob Parker urges North Islanders to take advantage of the cheap fares to journey south.

"There's no better place to be on Cup Day than in Christchurch - it's where all the action will be. There's such a buzz in the city for New Zealand Cup and Show Week and you can almost guarantee the weather will be good,'' Mayor Bob Parker says. "Even if you're not a big racing fan you will love being at Addington just to soak up the atmosphere.''

Christine Prince says Christchurch has undergone lots of change in recent years, with new areas like South of Lichfield bringing an added edge to the city. For about the same cost of a pizza delivery those who have not visited Christchurch for some time can take a journey of re-discovery.

"There's so much for people who haven't visited the region in a while to see and do. With airfares at this price it's too good an opportunity to pass up,'' she says.

Pacific Blue's New Zealand operation is based in Christchurch. Some 3000 Pacific Blue seats go on sale from 10am tomorrow (Saturday, October 20) to midnight Monday, October 22, or until sold out. To book log onto www.flypacificblue.com and visit www.nzcupandshow.co.nz for more information on New Zealand Cup and Show Week.

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