The Aotearoa live music sector is vibrant and diverse, spanning small bars and clubs through to iconic festivals and large-scale stadium tours. The live music sector is a major contributor to the Aotearoa music industry, accounting for over 40% of jobs and more than one-third of total industry revenue (2020).

Alongside this, research and industry feedback indicate high rates of sexual harassment and harm in live music settings.

Contributing factors include:

• Temporary, transient, and fast-changing teams and workplace environments

• Presence of alcohol and drugs

• Event settings where audiences are encouraged to relax social boundaries and cut loose

Further detail is available in our independent report.

Everyone working in the sector from promoters, venues, contractors, suppliers, artists, and their teams has an important role to play in creating safer environments for everyone. SoundCheck Aotearoa has developed a range of resources, in collaboration with industry professionals, to support this work.

Given the diversity of the sector, these resources are designed to be flexible rather than one-size-fits-all. They aim to be practical and adaptable across different settings.

Guidance below outlines:

• Who may use these resources and how

• General responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA)

This information is high-level general guidance only. Legal position in any particular case vary depending on specific circumstances of a specific situation.

The templates are designed to be modular and can be used together or independently. A Sexual Harassment Policy is recommended as the foundation. Some tools, such as the Merlin’s Pass system, should be used alongside a policy.

For further context on health and safety responsibilities and how different roles interact at live events, refer to Guidance on Resources for Live Music Sector.