A floral fixation: Central City Flowers

Central City Flowers has relocated from South City Mall to 92 Colombo Street (corner of Fisher Avenue), and owner, Allan Jarden, is rapt because 12 years ago, he was working at the very same premises. “It’s like being home again. It’s a great neighbourhood around here.”

Allan and his team specialise in weddings, but also do corporate flowers, sympathy flowers, living plants, exquisite giftware, and gourmet gift hampers, including gluten-free. They deliver locally, nationally and internationally through Interflora.
Allan began learning his trade in his teens; now, with more than 40 years in the business, the fully qualified florist says he wouldn’t be doing anything else. “I love my job – I’m passionate about my work!”

All Allan’s certificates, including his diploma and Master Florist, were obtained through NZ Professional Florists. Currently, Allan is President of Interflora Pacific Unit, which necessitates quite a lot of international travel.

In fact, Allan’s standing in the world of floristry is held with such high regard that on 23 February, he headed to Philadelphia to judge the Interflora World Cup, one of the biggest, most prestigious floral events in the world. There are 23 countries taking part this year. Allan was one of only six judges.

When asked about his surname, Allan smiles. Way back in time, and due to his French lineage, Allan’s surname was spelt Jardin – the French word for garden. He agrees that yes, it does seem that he and flowers were destined to be together.

Phone 03 961 8165, visit www.christchurchcityflowers.co.nz or find on Facebook at www.facebook.com/centralcityflowers.