Electric Hyde, a proposed event advertised in popular Castle26 Facebook group as an alternative to Elective Avenue, was quickly cancelled following discussions with the University and the Otago University Students’ Association. Critic Te Ārohi understands that Hyde Street residents were made aware of the potential consequences of the proposed event going ahead during the Annual Hyde Street Party Residents Meeting, leading to its cancellation.
A spokesperson for the University of Otago confirmed that the Proctor attended the initial residents' planning meeting for the event at the invitation of OUSA. “At that meeting the Proctor spoke to street residents and, as part of discussions, raised various issues that could arise as a result of running a large, unofficial street party.”
One of the key concerns was the potential impact an unofficial event could have on the long-running Hyde Street Party, which relies on established and valuable partnerships between OUSA, emergency services, and the local community to operate safely each year.
Hyde Street resident Cherry* told Critic that residents were effectively presented with what she described as an “ethical dilemma." Cherry said it was made clear during the meeting that if Electric Hyde were to go ahead independently, it could jeopardise the future of the official Hyde Street Party. Electric Hyde would place strain on first responders, traffic management and security personnel.
Hyde Street Party, locked in for April 18th this year, essentially risked permanent cancellation if Electric Hyde came to fruition. Given the notoriety of the annual party, this would no doubt be a regional tragedy and cut deep within the Hyde whānau, also leaving LookSharp with a worrying overstock of money suits.
“After considering these issues, the residents made an informed decision not to proceed with the event,” the University spokesperson added. Cherry described it as a unanimous agreement to “tell the people to fuck off if they pulled up.” This resulted in the “quietest night we’ve had on Hyde since 1869.”
Electric Hyde certainly revealed the dangers of a popular new hobby – AI Facebook shit-posting on Castle26. Not only that, it provided a reminder that throwing a rager doesn’t just involve considerations of drinks, gear, and speakers.
As Cherry pointed out “I would actually like to say thanks to the idiot who posted that post, because it made room for us all to learn about how grateful we should be that we’re blessed enough to have all these first responders to make [Hyde Street Party] possible”.
Just buy the bloody EA ticket next time.
*Name Changed
