‘Devastated’: Hidden Valley Festival organizers ‘saddened’ by sudden death

Organizers of the Hidden Valley Festival say their “thoughts, respect and aroha” are with the family of the person who passed away yesterday at the event.

Emergency services were called to the festival after an attendee suffered a medical event around 7:30 p.m. yesterday.

“Unfortunately, even though the person was given immediate medical assistance, he died.”

In a statement posted on Instagram today, Hidden Valley organizers said they were deeply saddened.

“As a live music festival that prides itself on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all, we are devastated by this tragic event,” they said.

“Our thoughts, respect and aroha remain with the family of the deceased at this time.

“The safety and well-being of our assistants, artists, staff, security and support team remains our number one priority.”

They say Hidden Valley will continue to follow health and safety guidelines set by law enforcement and local authorities.

A police spokeswoman told the Herald they were investigating the death on behalf of the coroner.

Know Your Stuff deputy editor Dr. Jez Weston said today that the cause of death has not yet been made public and they did not want to speculate.

“The death at Hidden Valley Festival is a tragedy. We are very sorry that this person’s friends and family are in this heartbreaking situation.”

The electronic music and dance festival, held at Matakana Country Park north of Auckland on December 27, is one of the first major festivals of the summer.