New Zealand’s longest-running music and arts festival, Splore, is coming to an end after its festival owner declared that the 2026 event will be the last, citing ticket sales that were "lower than hoped for".

Splore Festival’s long-time owner, John Minty, said the event has struggled financially since Covid-related postponements and cancellations. Previously, sales for their 2024 event were impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.

“We took a rest last summer hoping things would pick up for the 2026 event but so far that hasn’t happened to the degree that we wanted”.

The organisers had hoped for a lifeline from the Government’s $70 million Event Boost Fund, which has booked in huge music events like Six60 & Synthony’s Once in a Lifetime in Christchurch, Linkin Park at Auckland’s Spark Arena, and Ultra Music Festival in Wellington next year.

However, the organisers said the grant was “not forthcoming” despite their "very persuasive application.”

“I have been involved with Splore at Tāpapakanga for 20 years and I feel now is a time to move on,” John Minty said in a statement today.

“I am incredibly proud of all that the festival has achieved and the devoted crew and Splorers who have created such magic and community over that period.

“However, it’s becoming more difficult to sustain a festival of Splore’s quality and depth, so rather than diluting it I’d rather it finish with a bang.”

The final festival runs for three days from February 20 to February 22, 2026, and will be held at Auckland’s Tāpapakanga Regional Park. It allows guests to camp on-site and enjoy a huge list of international and local music acts across six stages, as well as an arts and wellbeing programme, and a dedicated children’s programme for families.

Described as more than just a festival, but a "living, breathing playground for self-expression," Minty said he hopes the spirit of Splore will live on in its community.

“So for all Splorers out there, let’s make this 2026 event a beautiful, farewell celebration party on the beach.”

Win tickets to the last ever Splore (with camping) here.