For Immediate Release
10 June, 2009

Targa set to bring in $500,000 to local economy

Rotorua businesses should get set to welcome this weekend's Targa Rally competitors and supporters as the event is expected to contribute more than $500,000 to the local economy, says Events and Venues Rotorua Events Manager, Emily Pritchard.

"Although it may seem like a relatively small event, it actually has more than 170 cars entered in the competition, and each car brings at least three people - a driver, co-driver and support person," says Ms Pritchard.

"It's estimated that the average spend for each team is more than $2000, and during the day's events, the support person is usually to be found making the most of Rotorua's activities and retail centre.

"It's a great opportunity for our businesses to welcome the event in what is traditionally our down season."

The Targa Rally also provides support some of Rotorua's outlying communities, with the event hiring rural schools to run car washes and provide packed lunches. These proceeds go back to the schools.

"The Rotorua public also has the opportunity to get really involved in the event, with the Rally's Show n Shine parade in town on Saturday night.

"Some of these cars are worth more than $200,000, so it's a unique opportunity for members of the public to get up close and personal with some truly unique cars - these are definitely not vehicles you see out on the road every day," says Ms Pritchard.

The Targa Rally kicks off this weekend with scutineering and mayoral welcome on Friday night, while the first car leaves Rotorua at 8:15am on Saturday morning. The cars travel seven stages totalling 175 kilometres, with stops at Ngakuru School and Kawerau. The Show n Shine runs from 4:30pm to 7pm at Eat Streat and Pukaki St.

The cars travel ten stages on Sunday travelling a total of 159 kilometres, stopping at Te Woutu School, Wharepapa School, Cambridge, Matamata and finishing back in Rotorua.

For further information, check out www.rotoruanz.com/events

ENDS

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