One of Tauranga's biggest reggae festivals has been cancelled.
Organisers of the event made the decision 10 mins ago after posting the following statement on Facebook.
"One Love family, it pains us to make this announcement. The rough weather last night and this morning has caused chaos, and there is no sign of it easing up over the weekend.
"From site flooding, to high winds, to artists being stuck in Auckland, thunderstorms predicted and heavy rain tomorrow as well, we are unable to safely and logistically deliver One Love 2023.
"This, along with the State of Emergency that was declared for Auckland last night has to be taken into account when considering your safety, along with the safety of our artists and crew. A total of 40 per cent of our ticket holders are from Auckland."
One Love promoter Glenn Meikle says the weather forecasts have worsened overnight,making it logistically impossible to hold One Love 2023 this weekend.
'Please understand that we have never wanted to cancel this event.
'One Love is a staple of New Zealand's summer festival scene and with tens of thousands of fans from around the world coming along to celebrate reggae music at each event, we know how disappointing this cancellation is for not only our ticket holders but for the staff who have been working tirelessly behind the scenes, and of course the artists who have been preparing for their One Love sets.
'However, safety of all is paramount - and that includes the 40 per cent of our ticket-holders who are unable to travel to Tauranga dealing with Auckland's State of Emergency. We hope everyone remains safe.
'Our team has considered every option before making the decision to cancel One Love 2023 and there really is no other option. Going ahead in the current conditions would simply be irresponsible.
'We are genuinely sorry to let everyone down.”
What this means for ticket holders
One Love 2023 is cancelled and everyone will receive a full refund within 30 working days
"Our campers can stay on our camping sites until Monday and will still receive a full refund.
"Pre-topped up wristband credits will be refunded within 7 working days.
"All ticket refunds will take up to 30 working days.
"We appreciate your love and support and we're genuinely sorry to have let you all down."
2 comments
I admire and respect...
Posted on 28-01-2023 12:15 | By morepork
... their very sensible and professional approach. If all tickets are refunded, you have to give them credit. (sorry, bad but pertinent pun...) Obviously, this is a well managed event and I sympathize with them.
Much Aroha
Posted on 28-01-2023 13:45 | By Mommatum
Sending much aroha to the One Love organisers. You’ve all worked so hard to bring this event to Tauranga and even many of us not attending looked forward to the lively, fun filled atmosphere bringing people to the CBD. Unfortunately however this year the weather decided otherwise both with downpours here and a state of emergency in Auckland. I sympathise so much both with you and all the devastated ticket holders. I know, I was booked to go to an earlier cancelled concert UB40.
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