Splore Festival has announced a hiatus for the year 2025 following what organizers describe as a “challenging” festival season in 2024. Fryderyk Kublikowski, the festival producer, cited economic considerations as a primary factor behind this decision.
Reflecting on the previous Splore event in 2024, Kublikowski acknowledged the festival’s vibrant atmosphere but noted that ticket sales did not meet expectations, resulting in economic strain. With the looming prospect of a tough year ahead for festival promoters and attendees alike, Kublikowski emphasized the importance of acting responsibly within the community.
Despite the financial setback incurred during the 2024 festival, Kublikowski reassured that all performers and suppliers were compensated in full. With Splore’s longstanding history spanning 25 years, the decision to take a fallow year is viewed as a strategic move to ensure the festival’s long-term sustainability and resilience.
Splore operates with a dedicated core team managing various aspects of the festival, from performance content to operations and production. While the decision to pause operations will undoubtedly impact these individuals, efforts will be made to explore freelance opportunities to sustain them during the hiatus.
Rising costs have been a concern not only within the New Zealand festival scene but internationally as well. Kublikowski highlighted the challenges faced by event promoters globally, citing instances of festivals experiencing financial difficulties and abrupt cancellations.
Reacting to Splore’s decision, Charlotte Ryan, host of RNZ’s Music 101, expressed understanding and support for the festival’s break, emphasizing the importance of festivals for local musicians and the broader cultural landscape of New Zealand.
Looking ahead, Splore Festival aims to make a triumphant return to Tāpapakanga Regional Park on February 20-22, 2026, rejuvenated and ready to deliver another memorable experience for attendees and performers alike.
