A free Earth Hour concert will be held in Cathedral Square this month, as Christchurch attempts to beat last year's power saving effort.
The garden city was the only New Zealand centre to take part in the inaugural Earth Hour 2008, a global initiative.
"Sixty-three percent of Christchurch residents switched off their lights during Earth Hour last year, along with about 200 local businesses,"
says Mayor Bob Parker.
"We managed to reduce the amount of electricity normally used at that time by over 12 percent. It was a great effort and I'm sure we can do even better this year."
Taking place in Cathedral Square from 6pm until 10pm on Saturday 28 March, the Earth Hour Unplugged concert boasts a line-up of six local bands with Dr Sanchez, Hera, Ragamuffin Children and The Easy Hearts setting the mood, and The Eastern and the Flip Grater Band performing during Earth Hour from 8.30pm until 9.30pm.
Concert-goers will also have the chance to win great energy efficient prizes, including a home insulation package, new bike, solar lights, an eco-office package and an energy audit of your home.
The ChristChurch Cathedral and Chalice lights will be turned off, several short films will be screened inside the cathedral, and an energy awareness expo will be held in the square.
"We would love as many people as possible to come to the square to take part in the global celebration but, if you can't make it, please remember to switch off your own lights and non-essential appliances.
"I'm really proud of Christchurch residents and businesses who are all doing their bit to make our city sustainable. Our support of Earth Hour
2009 is evidence of our commitment to addressing environmental concerns.
It demonstrates, quite simply, that by many people making a small effort, a significant difference can be made," says Mayor Parker.
Earth Hour will launch the Christchurch City Council's inaugural Energy Awareness Week from 30 March to 3 April.
Experts on sustainable transport; business; building design; homes; and renewable energy will present free seminars throughout the week at the Christchurch Art Gallery.
Free bus tours to various sites demonstrating innovative energy efficiency will also be held during the week, including the Burwood landfill where landfill gas is collected to power the QEII recreation centre, the Gebbies Pass wind turbine and the Christchurch Energy Efficient Show Home.
Registration is necessary for the tours and some of the seminars. Please visit www.ccc.govt.nz/energyefficiency/energyawareness for more information and to register.
Walk For The Planet will also arrive in Christchurch in time to celebrate Earth Hour. During the 40 days of Lent, the group is walking along State Highway 1 from Stewart Island to Wellington to express concern for the wellbeing of the planet. The group left Stewart Island on Tuesday 24 February and will arrive in Christchurch on Saturday 28 March.
For media inquiries contact Karen Hamilton on 03 376 5338, 021 967 159 or karen@360degevents.co.nz.
