Auckland's Laneway Festival bans under-18s from 2025 event after licensing decision

Auckland's Laneway Festival will not allow anyone under 18 to attend its 2025 event. The Auckland District Licensing Committee rejected an application to admit 16 and 17-year-olds, despite tickets already being sold to them. Organizers expressed disappointment, stating they had worked with authorities throughout the application process. They had hoped to provide younger audiences access to live music after a successful 2024 event that included 16+ patrons. The committee cited concerns about security and alcohol consumption as reasons for the decision. Ticket holders under 18 will receive refunds between January 6 and January 18, 2025.