Tauranga’s One Love music festival has decided to cancel its 2026 edition, pointing towards what it calls “several challenging situations”.

The reggae festival is held annually in the Bay of Plenty and attracts tens of thousands of visitors.

In a Facebook post, organisers confirmed they had been reviewing several challenging circumstances “including the realities of the current economic climate”.

“With the cost of living crisis ongoing and more than 80% of our audience travelling for two days, we know the strain this puts on household budgets,” the post said.

“Because of these factors, along with unforeseen developments behind the scenes, our team has had to make the heartbreaking decision to place the One Love festival on hold for 2026.

“This has been a difficult process for us because we want nothing more than to deliver One Love at the standard our community deserves. Sadly, that simply isn’t possible for 2026.”

Organisers planned to hold a scaled-back version of the festival, however decided against it because it “wouldn’t be true to what One Love represents”.

“The festival has always been about the experience ... and a watered-down version wouldn’t honour that legacy.”

The 2024 One Love music festival at the Tauranga Domain with Julian Marley playing on the main stage. Photo / Maryana Garcia

The organisers also addressed “recent conversations” involving former owner Pato Alvarez.

In 2023, he was found guilty of the indecent assault and attempted unlawful sexual connection of a woman hired as a babysitter.

He was sentenced to 12 months’ home detention on November 10, 2023, and finished serving that sentence late last year.

One Love organisers said Alvarez sold the music festival in 2022.

“As part of the sale, Pato had a number of obligations to complete under the contracted handover process. These were fully met and finalised.

“We want to reassure you all he is not involved with One Love festival in any capacity.”

The organisers added they were navigating “important structural changes behind the scenes, including upcoming shifts in ownership and directorship”.

“While these transitions are significant, they’re all focused on restoring the festival’s legacy,” the post read.

“As we take this pause, please know that we are continuing to work diligently on what comes next.”