New Zealand cancels Auckland’s Pasifika Festival in wake of COVID-19

Friday, March 13, 2020

As a precautionary measure to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), Pasifika Festival, which was to be held in Auckland, New Zealand, has been cancelled. The decision was made after discussions between Mayor Phil Goff and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

“While the latest Ministry of Health advice is that New Zealand does not have a community outbreak of COVID-19 and the risk of a community outbreak remains low, Auckland Council and the Cabinet Committee’s specific concerns are about the risk of the virus being transmitted to the Pacific Islands by attendees of the Festival,” Mayor Goff said.

“It is disappointing for all of us as Aucklanders, and particularly for our Pacific communities, that the festival will not be going ahead this weekend.

“It’s unfortunate to have to cancel an event enjoyed by tens of thousands which celebrates our vibrant Pacific community in Auckland and our multiculturalism.

“However, Aucklanders will understand the council taking commonsense steps to reduce the risk of the virus spreading,” said Phil Goff.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, “We’re disappointed, but at the end of the day the health of New Zealanders and the Pacific community is our number one priority.”

« Back to Page

• New Zealand Gears Up for an Unforgettable Summer of Travel and Adventure

• Satopia Travel Reveals Premier New Zealand Luxury Trip for World Travelers

• Radisson RED unveils stylish accommodation options in New Zealand

• Sichuan Airlines revives direct flight route to New Zealand

• New Zealand tourism recovers with 2.96 million overseas visitor arrivals