A massive pavilion shipped to Queenstown for the American Express Queenstown Winter Festival is being hailed as a significant investment into the future of the town's iconic winter event.

Destination Queenstown CEO David Kennedy said the Kawarau Falls Station Pavilion will be the 'place to be' during festival providing a hub for festival activities, information and events.

"In the 34 year history of the event this is the first time we've had a true festival centre which is capable of hosting a wide range of events, providing festival information, updates and a central meeting point for all things festival."

Situated in the Ballarat Street car park, the Kawarau Falls Station Pavilion will be highly visible as you enter the main town of Queenstown, and is close to the waterfront, Earnslaw Park, bars and restaurants.

Winter Festival Director Sally Feinerman said the festival organisation is committed to improving the event every year and sourcing the pavilion would streamline many activities.

"It is our goal to innovate every year to develop the festival. The pavilion provides us with a secure base which will become the festival home for many activities and events.

"It is easy for people to find and to get to and I expect it will also become the place to recharge during the day and enjoy each evening, whether it's for a good laugh one of the comedy events, or the chance to hear some fantastic music from renowned performers."

Ever-popular events returning for the 2008 festival to be staged in the Kawarau Falls Station Pavilion include the American Express After Party on Friday 27 June and the Great Comedy Debate on Monday 30 June and Millennium Hotels Sunday Brunch on 6 July. New events this year include Queenstown Airport presents Jennifer Ward-Lealand, Falling in Love again on Saturday 28 June, the American Express Gourmet Experience on Sunday 29 June and Fluid design presents Lucid 3 on Friday 4 July.

Ms Feinerman said tickets were available for all events, with the exception of the American Express Jazz Night which has already sold out.

"I encourage everyone to pick up their copy of the winter festival brochure, or visit our website and book your tickets today – don't miss out!"

The American Express Queenstown Winter Festival kicks off with the ever-popular fireworks opening celebrations on Friday 27 June and runs through until Sunday 6 July.

For information on the 2008 Festival and to book tickets visit www.winterfestival.co.nz.