SPLASH! New Zealand overcomes wild Wellington weather to post positive show

The first ever SPLASH! event in the New Zealand capital, Wellington, proved to be a success despite the worst weather the city had experienced in 75 years.

“This year’s SPLASH! New Zealand was always intended to be a more intimate event, and had a stronger focus on the commercial and aquatics sector than our usual shows,” says Simon Cooper, Director of Interpoint events and organiser of SPLASH! New Zealand.

“The dramatic weather events did affect some visitor turnout – nonetheless, the show was a success. I think co-locating with JAWs worked really well for both of our events.”

Hugh Smith of gold sponsor Pentair Water Pool & Spa, says he was pleasantly surprised by the activity at the show. “It started a bit on the slow side and I am sure that was due to the weather, but as the first day wore on many folks braved the weather and came by. The second day was great. I am sure this was due in part to the attendance of the JAWS group, but overall I was pleasantly surprised and happy we contributed.”

Steve Budden of silver sponsor Filtermaster said that the willingness of staff to help in every way contributed to the event being as successful as it was.  “We have several new companies to follow up on next week all for new business which is great!”

Alison Law, Aquatics Project Manager at the New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) says that the Just Add Water Seminar (JAWS) celebrated its 50th birthday in style.

“Thanks to record delegate numbers and a strong partnership with the SPLASH! Pool and Spa Trade Show, JAWS 2011 was one of our most successful events,” she says.

There will be more information on SPLASH! New Zealand 2011 in the next printed edition of SPLASH!, due out on October 4.

The next SPLASH! Pool and Spa Trade Show will be on the Gold Coast, July 25 and 26, 2012.