World Science Fiction Convention hosted by NZ

It reads like a classic sci-fi scenario. A deadly pandemic strikes just as an massive international convention is about to open, throwing everything into chaos. Ten years of planning have gone into New Zealand's first time hosting the World Science Fiction Convention. Several thousand ardent fans, guests and speakers were due to come to Wellington - about now, as it happens. The show must go on - and now it will, with more than 750 events planned, including the presentation of the Julius Vogel Awards for best New Zealand sci fi.. The talks, sessions and workshops will now be beamed out around the world virtually, including planned sessions for the 78th WorldCon's guest of honour - Game of Thrones author, George R R Martin. Lynelle Howells is Vice-Chair Experience for ConZealand, which is what we're calling the event. She tells Lynn Freeman what to expect.