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Jazzy start to new year
Tuesday 11 January 2011
A healthy start to 2011 Page 10-11
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Nayland coaches prepare for cup
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Nelson still the spot to holiday Andrew Board Tourists are still flocking to Nelson and Tasman despite a tough economic year and another Christchurch earthquake putting an end to some holiday plans, says Nelson Tasman Tourism chief Lynda Keene. Operators say the number of people holidaying in the region is about par or just slightly below last summer’s numbers and while that may not sound like good news, Lynda says Nelson is still a hot destination. “Traditionally a lot of Cantabrians come up on the 26th [of December] but a lot have obviously had to stay at home after the earthquake, so to still be holding as well as we are is good news.” Camping grounds spoken to by Nelson Weekly say they are on par with last year. Valda Holland from Tahuna Beach Holiday Park says at its height the park had 2300 people in it and numbers are similar to last summer. While the Christmas to early New Year period has been busy Lynda says the sector is expecting a traditional soft patch until visitors flock to the region again in February. “There’s no doubt we are still a favourite holiday destination for both domestic and international travellers and there is a very positive outlook for the next few months and beyond.” While people are still visiting the region it seems the effect of the recession is still biting with free activities very popular, including hiking, swimming and gardening. “Free products are getting a lot of interest which shows that people are very mindful of spending money,” says Lynda.
GIVE US A GO: Natasha Lubas and Laura Anderson, both of Nelson, give Katchafire’s Jordan Bell a hand singing to the Summer Six crowd at Trafalgar Park on Saturday. Photo: Phillip Rollo.
Sun shines on Summer Six concert Scorching heat was a welcoming sight for 1700 concert-goers at Summer Six and without it, the gig was in danger of even happening. An oversight left organisers reeling after a sprinkler came on the night leading up to the concert and soaked all of the equipment. “We were just lucky the sun came out first thing in the morning to allow us to dry out our musical, produc-
tion and bar equipment,” says organiser Dave White. But the sprinkler drama was the only hiccup in an otherwise sensational Summer Six, highlighted by crowd favourite Katchafire. Of the 1700 people who entered Trafalgar Park on Saturday, every single one of them was on their feet dancing and singing to the Hamiltonbased reggae group.
Head Like a Hole’s heavy rock and the Phoenix Foundation’s indie sound were both welcoming additions and allowed for a wider fan base. Change of venue was a huge positive from last year’s concert at Saxton Oval, with barely any wait, and much easier access to toilets and food stalls. Dave says despite a financial hit the concert will be held again next year.