Auckland's Polyfest cancelled due to coronavirus outbreak

Auckland's Polyfest has been cancelled following meetings between the organisers and the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS).

A statement from the Polyfest Trust says it is the "wisest choice" to cancel the event.

"While we await the details of the Government's policy on mass gatherings, the following advice stands from a public health risk assessment perspective.

"We understand that 110,000 people usually attend from around NZ.

This is a large gathering, with close personal contact."

The four-day event that showcases traditional music, dance, costume and cultural speech competitions was due to be held on the 18-21 March.

It follows calls from Auckland Mayor Phil Goff after he conveyed a "strong view" to organisers that the event should be cancelled amid fears it could spread the COVID-19 coronavirus.

The Polyfest Trust met with ARPHS on Sunday and again on Monday morning to discuss this year's festival.

[Source :NewsHuB]