For immediate release
9 November 2006

Marlborough’s Festival Weekend Just Got Bigger

• Rhombus and Greg Johnson locked in for February 10
• Record 52 wineries confirmed for the event
• New ‘Wine Down’ bus trail added to weekend

Marlborough’s biggest weekend just got bigger, not only have some seriously talented musicians confirmed their availability, but the organisers have added a Sunday ‘Wine Down’ bus trail to the mix.

“This is going to be like two festivals in one” says Wine Marlborough’s Marketing Manager Tom Trolove; “visitors will be able to catch buses on Sunday from the town centre to over a dozen local cellar doors, with tastings, lunch and entertainment along the way - that’s not a bad way to spend a Sunday”.

“We are delighted to have secured such great live acts for the Saturday with the soulful Greg Johnson coupled with energy and positive vibes of Rhombus. And of course it doesn’t finish there, we will also be treated to the chilled jazzy sounds of Twinset and the ever popular Beat Girls – it’s going to be great” says Events Manager Sarah Booker.

“Things have definitely started to pick up, the festival and ‘Wine Down’ tickets went on sale last week and already we are well ahead of where we were this time last year”. And “with ticket sales limited I don’t think people should leave it too late this year” adds Sarah.

The festival has become increasingly recognised as New Zealand’s premier Wine and Food event and has drawn the attention of an international audience. “We’ve got a cruise ship lining up in Picton for the weekend as well as daily inquires from international visitors, there is a real buzz developing and with the Sunday bus trail, well that’s a bit of an unknown, it could be huge” says Tom.

The support from the industry has again been strong, with many wineries from outside Marlborough showing interest in attending so that they can showcase their Marlborough varieties. As a result a record 52 wineries have confirmed their attendance at this year’s festival. Local chefs and restaurateurs have also been registering strong interest with in excess of 20 food sites expected.

Tickets for both the Saturday festival and the Sunday bus trail are available online at www.ticketdirect.co.nz., at the Marlborough Centre, Blenheim Information Centre or phone toll free 0800 224 224.

ENDS

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