Laneway Festival NZ Apologises After Under-18s Barred From Attending 2025 Event

The New Zealand leg of the Laneway Festival has issued an apology to underage patrons after an unsuccessful licensing application has left under-18s unable to attend the event.

The Auckland portion of the touring festival kicks off the wider Laneway affair when it takes place on Thursday, February 6th. However, organisers have taken to social media to reveal that all underage patrons who have purchased tickets will now be receiving refunds.

Organisers noted that despite patrons as young as 16 being allowed at 2024’s festival, the Auckland District Licensing Committee has rejected their application for those under 18 to attend in 2025.

“We worked closely with Police, Alcohol Licensing Inspectors, and the Medical Officer of Health, in good faith throughout the application process and did not anticipate this disappointing outcome,” organisers wrote.

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“We were looking forward to providing younger audiences with the opportunity to access great live music and are truly sorry this won’t be possible at the 2025 event.”

Due to the timing of the announcement, Laneway Festival NZ organisers urged patrons who are no longer allowed to attend to be patient while Ticketek issues refunds. Said refunds will reportedly be processed between January 6th and 18th.

“We’re incredibly grateful for your understanding, and we hope to welcome you to future Laneway Festival events,” they added.

The Australian leg of Laneway Festival kicks off in Brisbane on February 8th, with all shows open for patrons aged 16 and over. The 2025 edition features a myriad high-profile artists, including exclusive sets from Charli XCX, Clairo, Beabadoobee, Bicep, Barry Can’t Swim, and more.

LANEWAY FESTIVAL 2025

Presented by triple j

Full line-up:

Charli xcx*
Beabadoobee* – Clairo*
Barry Can’t Swim* – BICEP present CHROMA (AV DJ set)*
Djo - Remi Wolf – Olivia Dean
Eyedress – Skegss – STÜM – RONA.
Hamdi – Joey Valence & Brae – 2hollis
Fcukers – Ninajirachi – julie** – Girl and Girl**
+ triple j Unearthed winners

Exclusive to Laneway Festival*
East Coast shows only**