Juicy Fest 2025, the controversial RnB and Hip-Hop festival, has officially cancelled its New Zealand dates, citing licensing hurdles and what organisers claim are “intentional” efforts to block the event. While disappointing to fans, the cancellation comes in the shadow of troubling incidents from last year’s events, including arrests, violence, and reports of gang intimidation.
Why Juicy Fest NZ Was Cancelled
Juicy Fest, which was scheduled for Tauranga, Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch in early January 2025, faced significant licensing challenges. According to Timeless Group, the festival’s promoters, opposition from authorities and police created roadblocks that couldn’t be overcome in time.
“Juicy Fest has faced tough opposition from authorities and police in running our event in New Zealand,” said a spokesperson for the festival.
Organisers revealed that only the Tauranga venue had secured a special licence by late December, leaving other cities in limbo. Efforts to secure Auckland’s venue were met with resistance, and alternative plans were abandoned after alleged police pressure led the new venue to withdraw its availability.
“Our efforts to oppose the decision to not grant our special licence were unsuccessful,” the organisers stated. “Although we have appealed, this appeal cannot be heard until after the Juicy Fest Tour is scheduled to end.”
Shadows of 2024: Past Troubles Come Back to Haunt
While licensing challenges are the official reason for the cancellation, the controversies surrounding Juicy Fest 2024 likely played a role in the difficulties.
The 2024 Auckland leg of the festival saw 12 arrests, gang intimidation, and multiple violent incidents. One of the most shocking moments involved a gang member biting off part of another man’s ear after a heated altercation.
Concertgoers also reported a heavy gang presence at the event, with attendees describing the atmosphere as “intimidating.” Despite a ban on gang regalia, tattoos and chants made their presence felt. Witnesses shared that gang-related aggression overshadowed the music for many.
One attendee said fights broke out frequently, security guards failed to intervene, and he eventually left the event early after being hit in the head with a full can of beer.
Wellington’s 2024 festival was similarly chaotic, with fights in the VVIP area, six arrests for disorderly behaviour, and reports of Mongrel Mob gang members disrupting the experience for other guests.
Medical staff treated a total of 191 people across Auckland and Wellington events, with 110 patients requiring care in Auckland alone.
Refunds and Australian Transfers
Ticketholders for the cancelled Juicy Fest NZ dates will be refunded, with organisers stating that the refund process is being “worked through” and updates will be shared in the coming weeks. Fans have also been offered the option to transfer their tickets to the Australian leg of the tour, which will proceed as planned.
Impact on Timeless Summer Tour
The cancellation of Juicy Fest has also impacted Timeless Group’s other event, the Timeless Summer Tour, which featured artists like Boy George, Bonnie Tyler, and Starship. With both festivals relying on shared infrastructure, the Timeless Summer Tour has been postponed, with organisers promising new dates and venues soon.
Can Juicy Fest Rebuild Its Reputation?
For fans of Juicy Fest, the 2025 cancellation is a major letdown. However, with last year’s controversies still fresh, the question remains: can Juicy Fest regain the trust of authorities and audiences in New Zealand?
While the Australian leg of the tour will move forward, the future of Juicy Fest NZ hangs in the balance. For now, organisers and fans alike are left wondering whether this marks a temporary setback or the end of the festival in Aotearoa.
