Chills to open 150th at Garden

Dunedin band The Chills will take to the stage later this month to celebrate the launch of a year of festivities marking the 150th anniversary of the Dunedin Botanic Garden.

Dunedin City Council communications and marketing manager Graham McKerracher said having The Chills play was a perfect way to get such a milestone year rolling.

''The Chills was one of the bands that really helped put the `Dunedin sound' on the international music map. They are a familiar part of the city's musical landscape and I'm sure a lot of people from Dunedin - and further afield - will seize the opportunity to hear them live in such a beautiful setting,'' he said.

The gig on Sunday, January 27 marks the beginning of a year of celebrations, which include exhibitions, entertainment and educational events, as well as hosting the 2013 Global Botanic Gardens Congress in October, which will attract international delegates from around the world.

The Chills will feature front man Martin Phillipps, who will be joined by James Dickson (bass) and Todd Knudson (drums), Erica Stichbury (keyboards/guitar/violin) and Oli Wilson (keyboards).

Renowned for songs such as Pink Frost, I Love My Leather Jacket and Heavenly Pop Hit, the band toured widely at home and overseas in the 1980s and 1990s, and recorded albums in both the United Kingdom and United States.

Shortly before The Chills play, Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull will launch the 150th anniversary celebrations in the lower garden at 1pm.