The first race day in Canterbury's annual Cup and Show week gets under way on Saturday.
The city's spring festival begins in the afternoon with Guineas Day at Riccarton Park, showcasing the country's best three year old race horses competing for $400,000 in prize money in the feature race.
Christchurch mayor Bob Parker says it is a big week ahead, building to the celebration of the 150th Canterbury A&P Show that runs from Wednesday to Friday.
Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall visit the show on Canterbury Anniversary Day on Friday.
City council marketing manager Richard Stokes says large crowds and road congestion are expected so people should plan ahead and take public transport if possible.
