Laneway 2026: Food Poisoning Concerns and Chappell Roan’s Emotional Set Mark Auckland Festival
By Lions Roar News Entertainment & Lifestyle Desk
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND — Saturday, February 7, 2026 — While Laneway Festival 2026 brought thousands to Western Springs this past Thursday, the aftermath has been clouded by reports of severe food poisoning. A popular Mexican food truck, operated by SheppardsNZ, is currently under fire after festival-goers took to social media to report debilitating illness following the event.
Amidst the health concerns, the festival featured a powerful and emotional performance by American pop sensation Chappell Roan, who praised New Zealand as a “safe haven” for the queer community.
1. “Fighting for Your Life”: The Food Poisoning Outbreak
The festive mood turned sour for many attendees who ate at the SheppardsNZ Mexican food truck. Online platforms have been flooded with complaints of extreme gastrointestinal distress.
- The Reports: One attendee described suffering through “the world’s worst diarrhoea,” while another shared that after waiting 90 minutes for her food, she spent the following day “fighting for her life” with food poisoning.
- Vendor Response: Operator SheppardsNZ has encouraged anyone affected to contact them directly. A spokesperson stated that food safety is their “number one priority” and that they work with premium wholesalers to ensure food is cooked fresh daily.
- Investigation: The company is currently investigating the situation to determine if health guidelines were breached during the high-pressure event at Western Springs.
2. Chappell Roan: “I’m So Scared in the United States”
On the main stage, the “Pink Pony Club” singer delivered more than just a musical performance. Chappell Roan took a moment to reflect on the political climate in the US, visibly moved by the sight of pride flags across Auckland.
- A Safe Haven: “I didn’t realize how scared I was until I got to NZ,” Roan told the cheering crowd. “It’s tough in my country right now… but to be here and see so many businesses with pride flags. This is f***ing awesome.”
- Gratitude: The star expressed her deep gratitude for the New Zealand community’s acceptance and valuation of queer people, contrasting it with the fear she currently feels back home.
3. Laneway 2026 Overview
Despite the food safety controversy, Laneway 2026 was hailed as a musical success, with Western Springs providing a massive backdrop for one of the region’s most anticipated summer festivals.
- Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026.
- Atmosphere: The festival was noted for its inclusivity and high-energy performances, though the food truck incident has left a lingering “bitter taste” for some fans.
