Slayer’s final-ever performance in New Zealand has been cancelled due to the recent terrorist attack in Christchurch.
For close to a year now, Slayer have been out on their final world tour, performing around the globe as a way to close the book on one of the finest careers in thrash-metal.
Over the last week, Aussie fans received their chance to say farewell to the metal icons, with a pair of mesmerising performances at Download Festival, and a handful of breathtaking live shows.
However, the group’s plans to say goodbye to New Zealand have sadly been interrupted, with Friday’s terrorist attack in Christchurch forcing promoters to cancel this final show.
While Friday night’s performance in Auckland went ahead as planned, the group’s first-ever trek to New Zealand’s south island has now been cancelled.
Set to take place tonight at Christchurch’s Horncastle Arena, barely a kilometre from where Friday’s attack occurred, promoters Storm The Gates and venue owner Vbase revealed that recent events have forced the show to be canned.
“On behalf of Vbase our heartfelt deepest sympathies go out to all the families affected by the recent tragedy,” explained Vbase Board Chairperson Tim Scandrett.
“The advice we have received is too compelling to ignore and we have made this decision in conjunction with the Police and Christchurch City Council.”
“We understand fans may be disappointed, however, we feel that it is in the best interest for the safety and wellbeing of the public after the tragic events which unfolded across our city 24 hours ago.”
Directors of Storm The Gates added, “Whilst we want music to be a positive impact on any city, the recent events are incomprehensible, and right now we stand together with Christchurch, and send our deepest sympathies to those affected.”
The cancellation of this evening’s show, which was set to feature Anthrax as the support act, has been met with mixed responses of support and anger from prospective concertgoers.
Sadly, with the show unable to be rescheduled, it appears as though Slayer may have already played their final show in New Zealand, undoubtedly leaving countless fans in the country disappointed during what is already a difficult time for the nation.
Check out Slayer’s ‘Seasons In The Abyss’:
