New Zealand’s shift into ‘Red’ under the COVID-19 traffic light system has thrown upcoming festivals and events into doubt and renewed pressure on hospitality venues.

It’s believed that the Omicron variant is spreading in Auckland and possibly also in the Nelson/Marlborough region following the detection of several cases over the weekend. The move into ‘Red’ was announced on Sunday morning and took effect at 11.59pm that night.

No timeframe has been given for how long New Zealand will be in ‘Red’, although Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said the country should expect it to last for “some weeks”.

Bars, restaurants and cafes are adjusting to operating under the ‘Red’ setting, which places limits of 100 people in hospitality venues using My Vaccine Pass, with additional rules around seating and separation.

The 100-person limit also applies to public gatherings in indoor and outdoor venues using My Vaccine Pass, which would prevent many upcoming events from taking place.

The Great Kiwi Beer Festival, which was to be held in Christchurch this weekend, has been cancelled.

Organisers of the Dunedin Craft Beer and Food Festival, scheduled to take place 4-5 February have also announced it is cancelling. They say planning continues for the October 2022 festival.

“We are devastated that the festival cannot proceed especially after two prior dates shifts, but respect Government decision to keep our communities safe in the spread of Omicron,” said Jason Schroeder, Festival Director.

Organisers of other upcoming events say they are working through their options and will update ticket-holders in due course.