The Queenstown Events Centre has recorded its busiest month ever since opening its doors in 1997, QEC operations manager Brett Paterson said

“This month we have received just over 19,500 visitors, surpassing the previous record month of May 2006, when 14,500 visitors passed through the centre,” Mr Paterson said.

Numbers this month were boosted when the centre hosted its first ever Rebel Sports Super 14 Rugby game between the Highlanders and Chiefs, over Easter, which attracted 10,000 spectators.

“When you add to an event of that magnitude the ongoing growth in popularity of the centre for community and commercial use, it’s not hard to see why it has been a record month, we are absolutely delighted,” Mr Paterson said.

It was great to see that the community was supporting the facility, through attending major events such as the national rugby game and lending strong support for local sports, he said.

“We have also seen a marked increase in the number of inquiries we receive for use of the centre as a meeting and conference facility,” Mr Paterson said.

Next month also looked set to be very busy.

May would feature the Dunkley’s Great New Zealand Craft Show on May 12, 13 and also the very popular annual Wakatipu Ski Sale on Sunday May 27, he said.

Another attraction of the facility was ticket sales through TicketDirect.

“It’s a one stop shop, you can come and support a local team, check on the progress of the new Aquatic Centre and get tickets for the upcoming Rocky Horror Show, the Michael Hill International Violin Competition or the Lindauer Queenstown Winter Festival,” Mr Paterson said.

Courtesy of Queenstown Lakes District Council - www.qldc.govt.nz