Friends, the organisers of the NZAGS event in 2012 have sent the following message, in the light of the continuing severe tremors following the major earthquakes in the Christchurch area. I am sure we can all understand the decision to postpone the event.
NEW ZEALAND ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY
STUDY WEEKEND FEBRUARY 2012 NOW 1st to 3rd February 2013
You may have heard in the news of the latest major earthquake in Christchurch on Monday 13 June;
thankfully although there was more damage to property and land there were no fatalities. However
as the magnitude of the quake was the same as the most severe one back in February, we have been having serious doubts about the wisdom of holding the Study Weekend in February 2012, now only 7 months away.
We very much wanted our guest speakers and delegates to relax and enjoy a lively and stimulating event, and until Monday were quite happy to proceed as planned. However, Monday’s tremors have cast a whole new light on the situation, and in those circumstances we do not feel we can in fairness expect our guests to come to Canterbury and feel safe and comfortable.
We are contacting all our speakers and contributors and hope to reschedule the event and run the programme as planned a year later in February 2013.
It is a huge disappointment to all concerned, as at times like these Cantabrians in particular very much need something to look forward to, but financial considerations aside, safety and security must come first, as we are sure you will understand.
We very much look forward to welcoming you in February 2013!
Doreen Mear
Ann Cartman
(Joint Convenors)
