Cities all over the world are preparing to celebrate the new Millennium - and Christchurch is no exception.

Sydney claims that on New Year's Eve it will have the best fireworks display. Edinburgh is likely to have the biggest street party in Europe. New Orleans is planning for something more spectactular than it's famous mardi gras, and New York is promoting its events as the global celebration at the crossroads of the world.

Christchurch, renowned for its festivals, aims to the best commemorative activiteis and entertainment in New Zealand to mark the millennium. The year 2000 is also the 150th anniversary of the founding of Canterbury province, the 160th anniversary of the Signing of the Treaty of Waitangi by Nai Tahu, and marks 250 years of Nai Tahu settlement in the region.

Many activities will last well into 200 and some will benefit future generations. Events will start this year with a spectacular New Year's Eve Millennium showcase - the biggest celebration the South Island will have ever seen.

"It will be a huge entertainment extravaganza with something for everyone - young and old" says Rae Knutson, chief executive officer of Turning Point 2000, which is core funded by Christchurch City Council and supported by many community organisations."The arrival of a new millennium is something that can be witnessed by only one in every 35 generations; there's no point in missing this one and waiting for the next!"

The Council will decide on core funding for the event following consultation on the Annual Plan in the next few months.

The showcase is expected to have a positive spin-off for businesses throughout Canterbury and provide an auspicious start for the events and project plannned for 2000 and Beyond

Well - there are lots of things. What's not to love? I love all the parks, especially Hagley Park and Jade Stadium. I love our pet stores and the way our water is so clean. I love the schools, especially Bromley School, where most people treat you with respect and kindness. I like Canterbury Museum. But most of all I love ice skating and roller blading - it's really cool! Sara Morgan, Bromley School student

"I'd rather be out here helping the kids cross the road safely, than at home worrying about them," says Pam Chick. At 8am and 3pm every school day Pam is at the corner of Selwyn and Brougham Streets making sure Addington School children cross the difficult intersection safely.

Good road skills earn the kids a lollipop on Fridays but Pam says she has few problems with them. "They're all really well behaved and if they don't get their lollipop one week they make sure they've earned it for the next one!" Pam is a member of the Addington School Board of Trustees. Her children went to the school and now a grandchild, Matthew, goes there.

She is paid for her time at the intersection by the Council, as part of a citywide programme to keep children safe on their way to and from school.

For more information contact Council schools advocate Lee Kelly on 941 8355.