Christchurch’s inaugural Grow Ōtautahi Garden Festival will finally open on Friday in the Botanic Gardens after COVID-19 ended plans to hold the free event last year.
The new festival draws on the region’s love of gardens, creativity, innovation and design and runs from Friday 12 March through until Sunday 14 March, 9am to 5pm.
Grow Ōtautahi Festival Director Sandi MacRae says it’s a huge privilege to be able to welcome people to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens for the festival.
“The weather is looking fantastic and we can’t wait to open the gates to the people of Christchurch for the Garden City’s very own Garden Festival. It’s free for everyone and there’s plenty to see and do.
“We were gutted that last year’s event had to be cancelled because of the lockdown, but we’re here now and we’re ready to go. The build-up is getting really exciting and the site is really starting to look amazing.
“Whether you want to be inspired by our exhibition and display gardens, tempted in the Garden Kitchen, wowed by the work of our schools and community gardens, have a bit of fun in the kids’ zone, or take part in our workshops and sessions – there’s something here for you and it’s free for everyone!”
Highlights of the festival include:
See the full festival programme.
Festival-goers will be able to purchase food on site but people are also welcome to bring their own picnic.
QR codes will be posted at the entrance to the festival and people are encouraged to use the COVID tracer app to sign in.
The festival is expected to draw lots of visitors so if you are planning on attending, the best idea is to leave the car at home if you can.
You’ll see the signs at entrances to the gardens which will point you to the festival – or just follow the people!
Limited on- and off-street carparking is available in usual locations around Rolleston Avenue, and some carparking will be available in the Hagley Park/Botanic Gardens car park.
A one-way system will be set up and operated by traffic management staff through this car park, leading in from the Armagh Street Bridge, and out onto Riccarton Avenue.