Sales for big party gathering strength

The Dominion, 24 December 1998

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MORE than half the 10,000 tickets to the country's biggest dance party, The Gathering, have been sold, co-organiser Alison Green says.

Sales were well up on last year. Another 1000 tickets had been printed and would be sold if required.

Last year, The Gathering, held on Takaka Hill's remote Canaan Downs from December 31 to January 2, attracted 8000.

Police were confident organisers had planned for most contingencies, police liaison officer Detective Sergeant Derek Milne said yesterday.

There would be a police commitment to The Gathering, but Mr Milne was not prepared to say how many officers would be there.

"Traffic safety staff will monitor traffic flows and direct vehicles," Mr Milne said.

"People who plan to travel over the Takaka Hill should be aware there will most likely be congestion on the road over that period."

Changes in organising the event included moving the ticket staging area to the end of Canaan Rd, opening the gates for entry 24 hours before the party started, and increasing security staff numbers to 60.

"With a gathering of that size there are a number of things which could happen, but we have had numerous planning meetings to tailor responses," Mr Milne said.

This year The Gathering will feature seven music zones, more than 100 DJs, and 50 live acts. -- NZPA

The Dominion, 24 December 1998

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