The Palms Reopens to Great Fanfare
It’s been a long road to recovery for The Palms Shopping Centre in Christchurch, one we’ve followed along with. After facing devastation, the center has struggled through 2011 so far to keep close ties with its community. But at long last, the center has reopened, and it seems like that whole community came out to show its appreciation.
On September 17, a little over a week after reopening its doors, the center held a Gala Day to celebrate. The day was a was a festive event with discounts, live music and more. Not only was it a way to mark the reopening, it was a tribute to the community that has stood by its center and come together for its community initiatives.
Shoppers were welcomed with a few words by center manager Keryn Ward, followed by a community message by local MP Lianne Dalziel. The center also had the chance to congratulate the winners of the recent $100,000 Community Assistance Campaign, including Dogwatch, Sumner Surf Life Saving Club, Student Volunteer Army, Freeville School, St Paul’s School and the Canterbury Caledonian Pipe Band.
“We are delighted to be open again and able celebrate this milestone occasion with the community,” said Ward. “Together we have achieved great things and Gala Day recognised and celebrated everyone’s loyalty to The Palms.”
Representatives of the center welcomed visitors and shared information with them about the work that had been done to get the center up and running again. They also gave out lucky tickets, part of a draw to win one of ten $50 vouchers later that day. Specials, giveaways and live entertainment marked the day, and for package-laden shoppers, golf carts roamed the parking lot to give folks a ride.
Then there’s the cake. An impressive replica of the shopping centre was shared, complete with little cars and “welcome back” signs. We’ve got a picture up on our Facebook page – so swing by and check it out.
