Dancing stars back as ambassadors

Acting and dancing stars Shane and Nerida Cortese are looking forward to doing the Tremains Art Deco Festival hat-trick as it will be the third year running they have happily taken up the mantle of being its Kiwi ambassadors.

Although after their experiences at the first two events there was never any doubt they would return.

"I just love the whole party atmosphere of the festival," Mr Cortese said. "The cars, and the people and their enthusiasm is infectious and I just love being among it."

Mr Cortese said he was also looking forward to again sampling some of the Bay's fine food fare and wines.

His wife said she was looking forward to slipping on the dancing shoes and taking to the dance floors during the festival - which is hardly surprising as she is a professional dancer who has represented New Zealand and Australia (where she originally hails from) in Dancesport competitions around the world.

"I think the Charleston is one of the most fun dances to do and there is no better place to dance it than at the Art Deco Festival."

The couple, famed for dancing their way to happiness on Dancing With The Stars, have become devoted fans of the great annual festival and will be taking part in several events. They will join in the big Saturday Vintage Car Parade, Costumes and Coiffures and the Bathing Belles Fashion Show, which they will MC, as well as turning out for the Shanghai Nights and the Gatsby Picnic on Sunday.

Art Deco Trust general manager Sally Jackson said she was delighted to have the couple back in town for what had become a huge international celebration of Art Deco styles, fashions, music and dance.

"They are both extremely talented national stars in their chosen fields with a genuine affection and understanding of the Art Deco era."

When he was initially approached to take on the ambassadorial role in 2014, Mr Cortese said he had no hesitation in accepting. He said it had been on his "bucket list" to attend for some time.