The New Zealand leg of Laneway Festival in Auckland has been cancelled for 2021 amid the coronavirus pandemic, suggesting its Australian counterpart may soon follow suit. The festival typically takes place annually between late January and early February.
“After much deliberation, we are very disappointed to announce that Laneway Festival Auckland will not be taking place this Summer 2021,” reads a statement from Laneway NZ organisers on Twitter earlier today.
“The current circumstances w/ border closures + unpredictability of future Covid-19 outbreaks have created a tough environment for festivals. We take pride in delivering a premium event but in these conditions we do not believe we can operate to our full capabilities.”
“We have decided that it would be best to take a year off so that we’re in a strong position to come back bigger and better than ever.”
The thread concluded telling followers to keep an eye on social media for an update regarding the state of Laneway Festival’s Australian events in the coming months. Music Feeds has reached out to Laneway Australia for comment.
The news comes amid continuing uncertainty regarding the viability of music festivals next year amid the pandemic. Last month, Falls Festival announced they were cancelling their 2020/2021 events, citing “the current status of things and border restrictions in place”.
Other Australian festivals have been more optimistic about 2021. Both Bluesfest and Splendour in the Grass are currently scheduled to go ahead next year.
[2 of 5]: of live music are incredibly important to us, and so, after much deliberation, we are very disappointed to announce that Laneway Festival Auckland will not be taking place this Summer 2021.
— Laneway Festival NZ (@lanewayfestNZ) September 16, 2020
[4 of 5]: We have decided that it would be best to take a year off so that we're in a strong position to come back bigger and better than ever. Sending our love and support to all our loyal crew and suppliers who we hope to see again, along with you[!], in Summer 2022 ❤️
— Laneway Festival NZ (@lanewayfestNZ) September 16, 2020
[5 of 5]: Keep an eye on our socials for an update on Laneway Festival's Australian (@lanewayfest) events in the coming months.
— Laneway Festival NZ (@lanewayfestNZ) September 16, 2020
