The Christchurch economy was boosted by $19.7 million directly from hosting the Ellerslie Flower Show this year, an independent study has revealed.

That is more than $3 million higher than the amount generated when the event was held in Auckland.

After bidding against Auckland and Hamilton, Christchurch won the right to host the annual horticultural event in 2007.

This year the show attracted 80,000 visitors to the ‘garden city’ of Christchurch.

“In just one year, Ellerslie has already had a significant impact not only on our economy but also in helping to reinforce Christchurch’s international standing as New Zealand’s Garden City,” said Christchurch mayor Bob Parker.

“We are well on the way to making Ellerslie one of the world’s premier garden shows.”

The Economic Impact and Perception Study by Melbourne’s IER showed the event employed 190 people full time.

The retail sector benefitted by $5.5 million, with $5 million contributed to the accommodation sector in 33,220 bed nights.

“Of the 40% of the audience which came from outside Christchurch, 86% said that the primary reason for their visit was to attend Ellerslie. This is great news for the city and the future of Ellerslie,” Mr Parker said.

International visitors were the source of $6.5 million of the funds injected in to Christchurch, with a further $3.2 million from North Islanders and $6.28 million from South Islanders.

“Only 18% of visitors at the show had previously attended the Ellerslie Show in Auckland and more than half of the visitors who travelled from the North Island had never been to the Auckland event,” Mr Parker said.

“We would expect this number of continue to rise.”