The Shepherdess Muster will not go ahead as planned in Motu, Tairāwhiti, this weekend, because of the extreme weather event and state of emergency in the region.
The decision was made in consultation with the event committee and local community after a watchful weekend and the worsening weather predictions across the past few days.
“We are crushed to have to cancel, especially with the incredible support we have received from the region,” event founder Kristy McGregor said.
“A huge amount of work has gone into the Shepherdess Muster and our event hosts, artists, speakers and talent were excited to be part of an event that connects rural communities. “However, it’s simply not safe to go ahead and the safety of all attendees including staff, speakers and local creatives as well as [ticket-holders] is our top priority.
“We want to say a huge thank-you to the local community and our sponsors for your unwavering support so far. We are heartbroken we must cancel this weekend, but we are also very aware of the pressure rural communities are under at the moment with yet another round of torrential rain.
“Myself and most of our volunteer committee are farmers and our thoughts are with the region during this time.”
More details regarding potential new dates and ticketing will be sent to ticket holders directly in the coming days.
