News release

Embargoed until Thursday July 3, 2008

MTV music festival great winter gig for Canterbury

MTV’s decision to hold its hugely popular Snow Jam in Canterbury on August 16 will boost the region’s international profile and provide yet another reason for people to visit here, says Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism chief executive Christine Prince.

She is delighted that the Terrace Downs resort in Canterbury has been chosen as the venue for MTV’s Snow Jam - one of MTV’s most popular annual fixtures. The one-day free concert set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps will feature back-to-back performances by artists like home-grown Christchurch band Opshop, The Grates, Potbelleez and Cut Off Your Hands. More acts, including a special international headliner, will be announced soon.

“Coverage of the Snow Jam is going to be beamed to 27 countries and a potential audience of tens of millions so this is a huge opportunity for us to promote Canterbury as a destination to some of our key markets, including Australia, Asia and the UK’’ says Ms Prince.

“Imagine it; you’re with your friends amid snow-covered mountains, the Rakaia river is roaring beneath the natural terraces carved out over millions of years, there’s a huge stage, great live entertainment and the most amazing fireworks display. It’s hard to imagine a better setting for this spectacle.

“It is going to be huge – it’s the type of event people who go will talk about for years to come. We’re thrilled MTV has chosen to host the event here because it gives people yet another reason to holiday here.

“The challenge now is to show MTV that there is no better place in the world for its Snow Jam than Canterbury so that they keep coming back.

“Every young person is going to want to be at the Snow Jam because we’re talking about a world class event in a spectacular location. The fact that it’s free just adds to its appeal. If you’re young and into music this is an event you don’t want to miss. Glastonbury eat your heart out!

“Terrace Downs is only an hour’s drive from Christchurch which means people will be able to stay in the city. The concert is due to finish at 8pm so they can come back into town and check out all the bars, restaurants and quirky night spots around the city.

“Hopefully people will chose to stay a few days and really take the opportunity to enjoy all the activities that Canterbury has to offer whether it be jetboating, blokarting, mountain-biking or bungy jumping. Mt Hutt, the Southern Hemisphere’ largest ski area, is only a stone’s throw away from Terrace Downs so if you’re into skiing or snowboarding it’s an ideal time to visit.’’

Ms Prince says it is important people who want to come to the concert book their flights and accommodation early to avoid disappointment. Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism can provide assistance with finding accommodation through its website www.christchurchnz.com. Virgin Airline is one of the key sponsors for the Snow Jam.

Ms Prince says the fact Canterbury has secured Snow Jam shows it has established credentials to host world-class events that draw an international audience.

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